The Influencing Factors of the Career Pathway for Health Professions’ Education

Abstract

Objective: This study has been designed to identify and explore the factors that influence medical and dental graduates to opt for Health Professions Education (HPE) as a sole career. Materials and Methods:Main design: A qualitative studySub Type: Phenomenological (exploratory) design was used to find out the factors that influenced medical and dental graduates to choose HPE as a full-time career.Setting: It was conducted at Riphah International University, Islamabad.Duration: From February to June.Sampling technique: Purposive non-probability sampling was used including graduates that had opted for HPE as a career.Population size: six participants agreed to participate in the study. There were 4 females and 2 males. The mean age of the participants was 44 years.Data collection tool: Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were used to collect data.Data analysis: Thematic analysis was done employing © QSR International’s NVivo Software v.11. The emergent themes were named according to the nodes in which the data were stored.Results: Thematic analysis revealed a total of thirteen themes. Some of these were common, recurring factors that influenced specialty selection; others were novel and specific findings. All participants, irrespective of planning their choice, considered opportunities for advancement. Student assessment was the most important Core area that had been mentioned in responses as having influenced their choice. There were documented differences between full-time and part-time faculty. Demographics had a positive relationship. Personal motivation and aims were important influences. The Nature of the work documented a significant influence on various responses. All of the participants were influenced by their Role Models/Mentors. Participants faced many challenges and also mentioned how they coped with them. Respondents strongly suggested and refer this as a career.Conclusion: An individual’s personal aim and motivation were very important factors as they assisted them to face challenges and stay steadfast. Females were more likely to choose HPE as a profession. Participants chose this profession because it matched their personality specifically as full-time faculty and were passionate about it. Role Models/Mentors were an influence on the specialty choice for all the participants.