Ophthalmology Career Choices Among Medical Students, House Officers, and Medical Officers in Northern Ghana

Background There is an unequal distribution of ophthalmologists globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and rural areas. In Northern Ghana, this shortage of ophthalmologists makes it especially difficult for individuals to get eye care. Objective This study aimed to understand the factors influencing career choices among medical students, house officers, and medical officers in Tamale Metropolis, Northern Ghana. Methods A mixed-methods approach employing questionnaires and in-depth interviews was used to examine factors, perceptions, and strategies to raise interest in ophthalmology. Results A total of 401 participants completed the survey. The majority of respondents were male (62%). 18 participants (4.5%) chose ophthalmology as their first career choice, ranking it as the sixth most preferred first choice specialty out of 16 specialties. Ophthalmology was predominantly selected as a third-choice career by 36 participants (9%). The primary factors that influenced individuals choosing ophthalmology were personal interest (27.5%), the desire for more family time (18.8%), the influence of role models, and the potential for part-time work (11.25%). Conversely, the most common negative aspects associated with ophthalmology were inadequate exposure in training (37.8%), the perception of the field as boring (21.9%), and the belief that ophthalmology is a narrow specialty with insufficient career prospects (13.0%). In contrast, a smaller proportion (19.02%) considered ophthalmology a fulfilling specialty. Conclusion We found that ophthalmology was most commonly selected as a third choice of specialty, while surgery was predominately chosen as the first choice. Income was not a major influencing factor in pursuing ophthalmology, however, non-stressful rotation, personal interests, increased family time, and opportunities for other part-time employment influenced those who chose ophthalmology. The lack of exposure to ophthalmology appears to be a barrier to participant’s interest in ophthalmology. We identified a need for exposing medical students to the full breadth of ophthalmology and increasing self-confidence through direct involvement in order to address the lack of eye care in Northern Ghana and worldwide.