Determinants of medical student's perception of general practice.

Abstract

Enhancing the attractiveness of a career in general practice is a significant public health concern, given the current shortage in Belgium. The objective of this study is to determine the factors that influence students' decisions to pursue a career in general practice and their perceptions of it. This prospective study was conducted in May 2023. A questionnaire, based on existing literature, was distributed to final-year medical students. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and bivariate tests (chi² test). Out of the 142 participating students (response rate: 45%), 29.3% expressed a preference for general practice, while 70.7% opted for other specialties. These groups exhibited significant differences (p < 0.05) not only in terms of socio-demographic factors (nationality, parent's education) but also in their perceptions of <u>general practice</u>. The latter group associated it with routine work (89.2%) and feelings of loneliness (58.5%), in contrast to the former (36.1% and 24.3%, respectively). Moreover, 76.6% of students reported a shift in their perception of <u>general practice</u> during their medical education. <u>General practice</u> internships (71.9%), GPs (78.2%), and interactions with patients (68.9%) had a positive influence on their perception, while instructors in hospital settings (72.9%) and peers (37%) often portrayed <u>general practice</u> as a less favourable career option. Perceptions of <u>general practice</u> are significantly shaped by interactions with role models from the medical sector who convey either a positive or negative image of <u>general practice</u>. To address the shortage issue, it is imperative to increase positive interactions with GPs within the curriculum and work towards changing the institutional culture at this level.