Professional transitions in medicine – switching medical specialty

Abstract

Professional transitions in Medicine are particularly difficult for physicians due to the costs and duration of medical education. This study sought to understand the experiences of physicians who have changed specialties, analyzing motivations and meanings underlying such transition. This is a qualitative study conducted with data collected by interviews with physicians that switched specialties. Our results indicate that excessive workload and lifestyle were the main motivations for change. Regardless of criticism, the physicians interviewed showed great satisfaction with the transition. Switching medical specialty seems a positive individual strategy to deal with dissatisfaction. However, in doing so, one should evaluate the lack of meaning for both the individual and medical practices.