A Cross-sectional Study to Determine the Choice of Subjects for Post-graduation and Reasons for Hesitancy to choose Pre and Para clinical subjects for Post graduation among Medical Graduates .

choice of subject for specialization

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Most medical graduates opt for specialization and super-specialization before starting their practice and previous studies show the preference for internal medicine and general surgery.  The reasons which affect these choices are a matter of research and concern.  This research aimed to include all NEET –PG aspirants and determine not only their choice but also reasons for reluctance to take pre and para clinical subjects for post graduation.

Methods

A cross sectional study was done in a medical college in Northern India in April-May2024. There were 80 participants mainly interns, and some non PGJRs and demonstrators. A schedule was administered to all recently passed graduates to assess and understand their choice.

Results

The mean age of participants was25.38±2.2 years, 60% were males, 37.5% were from a rural background,60% had no doctor in the family. Choice of subject was mostly based on self-interest in 83.75%.   The subject of choice (first choice) was Medicine as mentioned by 37.5% participants followed by Dermatology 15%, and General Surgery  by 13.75%.

Job satisfaction and better financial prospects were advantages for clinical subjects and good work life balance and  contribution to academia for pre and para clinical subjects.The same themes have been mentioned as both advantage and disadvantage by participants like patient interaction, handling emergencies, dependency on other doctors, field work, preference  of family etc with reasons justifying both aspects highlighting the importance of individual’s choices and perception .

Conclusion : Suiting the area of specialization to every doctor’s temperament is very important not only for them, but also in the best interest of society. Doctors need counseling at the time of selecting their branch in which teachers and seniors can play a very important role.