Mentoring in Medical Science: The Experience of German-Speaking Countries

Abstract

The article analyzes the basics of mentoring as a form of ensuring professional development, successful adaptation and positive influence on the interpersonal interaction of future scientists in the field of medicine. A comparative analysis of mentoring as a scientific support for future scientific and pedagogical medical staff is offered Germany, Austria and Switzerland. It was found that in recent decades, the medical profession in Western countries has been acquired mainly by women, however, this does not always allow them to plan a professional career due to certain obstacles: social concepts, gender stereotypes, high requirements for advanced training, strict work schedule, difficulties in obtaining PhD and habilitation degrees. Medical mentorship programs have been found to be offered beginning at postdoctoral status, particularly for women, as their proportion declines dramatically after the PhD.