Survey among general practitioners under 35 years of age

Overview

Background:
The average age of general practitioners in the Czech Republic is over 50. The ratio of young doctors is low. General Practice does not attract enough medical graduates.

Aims and methods:
The Department of General Practice of the First Faculty of Medicine conducted a questionnaire among Czech General Practice Society members under 35 years of age. The aim of the survey was to gain information on the professional interests of young doctors and to study the potential for their cooperation in the scientific or academic arena.

Results:
281 physicians under 35 were found in database of The Czech Society of General Practice. 107 colleagues answered the questionnaire. Of the 102 physicians working in general practice, 41 are selfemployed, 61 are employees. Among those aged 35 and younger, 95 % use the internet and 60 % can speak English. The favourite source of medical information was the Medicína po promoci journal. Half the respondents expressed an interest in scientific or teaching activities. Most considered the establishment of their own medical practice to be their greatest professional achievement to date.

Key words:
general practitioner, general practice, survey