Understanding the pathology workforce: motivations, job satisfaction, and training perspectives in Germany

The growing shortage of pathologists and the increasing workload present significant challenges for the field of pathology. To address these challenges, it is crucial to understand what motivates young doctors to enter pathology training and to evaluate the current training environment at German university hospitals. A nationwide online survey was conducted among pathology residents at German university hospitals. The survey collected data on demographics, career motivations, job satisfaction, academic ambitions, and work-life coherence. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 29, IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) with χ²-testing, Spearman's correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis, and exploratory factor and cluster analysis. The most important factors influencing the choice of a pathology residency were an interest in pathology, work-life coherence, and the absence of night shifts. Regression analysis revealed that a high frequency of overtime, teaching and other activities had a negative impact on job satisfaction, whereas having time for scientific work had a positive effect. Four distinct resident types were identified based on their motivation to become a pathologist: "the grounded pathologists", "the committed all-rounders", "the specialists", and "the driven researchers". The choice of pathology residency at German university hospitals is influenced by diverse motivations. In order to attract and retain residents and support their long-term success, institutions must reduce overtime hours, provide stronger support for academic career development and create more family-friendly working conditions.