Pediatric Neurology Workforce in Saudi Arabia: A 5-Year Update-Reference-Cited by-同舟云学术

Pediatric Neurology Workforce in Saudi Arabia: A 5-Year Update

Published:2023-08-14 Issue:16 Volume:11 Page:2288
ISSN:2227-9032
Container-title:Healthcare
language:en
Short-container-title:Healthcare

Author:

Bamaga Ahmed K.¹²^ORCID,Alyazidi Anas S.¹^ORCID,Almubarak Albatool³,Almohammal Mohammad N.⁴,Alharthi Ayidh S.⁵,Alsehemi Matar A.⁵

Affiliation:

1. Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia

2. Neuromuscular Medicine Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia

3. Faculty of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH10 5HF, UK

4. Department of Pediatrics, Ministry of Health, Bisha 67841, Saudi Arabia

5. Pediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, King Fahad Hospital, Albaha 65732, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: The medical workforce plays a pivotal role in advancing human health, particularly within the healthcare system of Saudi Arabia. While government-employed healthcare providers form the central structure of the system and offer free healthcare services, the private healthcare sector is also witnessing significant growth. In parallel, the field of child neurology has experienced notable transformations in recent years, with continued expansion. This expansion brings forth a range of challenges for both current and future pediatric neurologists, necessitating careful consideration and proactive measures to address them. Aim of the study: To investigate and analyze the current characteristics of the workforce, with a specific focus on their employment status and related data. Methods: This is a cross-sectional analysis, using a survey to assess the distribution of pediatric neurologists in Saudi Arabia (SA). The final analytical sample included 82 subjects, working in 13 regions in SA. A descriptive analysis was used to address the study question. Results: The survey received responses from a total of 82 pediatric neurologists in Saudi Arabia (response rate 55%), with 38 (46%) being men and 44 (54%) being women. The mean age was 33 ± 1.225 years. The majority of participants practiced in major cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah. Nearly 50% of pediatric neurologists experienced some form of delay in obtaining their first job, ranging from 1 to 36 months. Conclusion: The landscape of the pediatric neurology workforce is currently witnessing noteworthy demographic shifts. With the majority of practitioners concentrated in major cities, there is an ongoing demand for qualified professionals in peripheral areas. This study describes the real-life challenges faced by pediatric neurologists, particularly the delay in securing employment after graduation, and underscores the critical importance of addressing these persistent issues along the journey of pediatric neurology.

Publisher

MDPI AG

Subject

Health Information Management,Health Informatics,Health Policy,Leadership and Management

Link

https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/11/16/2288/pdf

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