Reasons For The Choice And Satisfaction Of Medical Specialty Programmes Among Residents Of The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital

Background A specialty is a major determinant of the future career of a person in medical practice. Thus, the choice of a specialty is an all-important step in the lives of all medical doctors. Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the factors that influence the choice of specialty programme among residents of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Methods A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 residents of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital using a self-administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software Version 21. The factors affecting the choice of specialty programme were examined. Results The most influential factor for the choice of medical specialty programme was interest in intellectual content and clinical issues (74.17%), followed by work-life balance (40.00%), and job opportunities and earning potential (31.67%). An overwhelming majority (84.17%) of respondents were satisfied with their choice of specialty programme and career guidance and counselling sessions in medical schools, during housemanship training and even during the period as a medical officer (n=98, 81.67%) was the most suggested intervention. Conclusion Rationales behind the choice of medical speciality are complicated and may be difficult to interpret. There is thus, the need for career advice and guidance for medical students, house officers and medical officers and this should correspond to the national health needs. Prospective residents must consequently be encouraged to make their choice based on their own interest and not that of others.