Realities and professional expectations of medical students attending Guinea-Bissau’s medical school – evolution from 2007 to 2016

Abstract

Background: The context where medical students are trained and their expectations towards professional life are paramount to plan the distribution, retention and motivation of the health workforce. In this study we compare the evolution of professional expectations of medical students of Guinea-Bissau, between 2007 and 2016. Material and Methods: We compare the results of two descriptive, cross-sectional studies where we applied a questionnaire. We conducted descriptive statistical analysis and content analysis. Results: In both years, most students were men, had family members who were health professionals, had attended school in Bissau, intended to work in the hospital and in the public sector. In 2016, the proportion of those willing to work outside Bissau had increased. They had not yet decided on the area of specialization and had high expectations towards futures earnings. Discussion: Despite the strong orientation towards hospital among, there was an increase in the proportion of students willing to work outside Bissau which presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between the needs of the health system and the expectations of future doctors. The expectations on future earnings should be worked at training level and in the institutions responsible for the planning of the health workforce to avoid detrimental effects on young doctors. The postponement of a decision on the area of specialization might present an opportunity of convergence with the national health strategy. Conclusion: No major changes occurred in the professional expectations of medical students of Guinea Bissau, between 2007 and 2016.