Aims/background: This study aims to identify and analyse the factors that influence or discourage junior doctors in the UK and across the world from wanting to pursue a career in orthopaedics.
Methods: A prospective, cohort study was carried out via an online questionnaire targeted at aspiring orthopaedic surgeons.
Results: A total of 654 respondents met inclusion criteria; 370 (56.6%) were UK-based and 284 (43.4%) were based abroad. The practical and technical nature of orthopaedics was the biggest influencing factor globally. UK respondents were notably more concerned by the financial impact of training (49%) followed by poor work-life balance (36%). Themes from the comments section revealed concern regarding gender bias and a lack of diverse role models within orthopaedics.
Conclusions: Reducing the cost and length of training, diversification of role models, removal of bias and increasing positive early experiences may help to encourage people of all backgrounds to pursue a career in orthopaedic surgery.
Keywords: Career aspirations; Career influences; Concerns; Global; Trauma and orthopaedics.