Specialist training in Fiji: Why do graduates migrate, and why do they remain? A qualitative study
2009

Reasons for Doctor Migration and Retention in Fiji

Sample size: 66 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kimberly Oman, Robert Moulds, Kim Usher

Primary Institution: James Cook University

Hypothesis

What factors influence the migration and retention of doctors who have undergone specialist training in Fiji?

Conclusion

The study suggests that local postgraduate training may enhance the retention of doctors in Fiji's public health sector.

Supporting Evidence

  • 48.5% of Fiji graduates were working in the public sector by December 2006.
  • 70% of Indo-Fijians resigned from public sectors compared to 31.7% of Fijians.
  • 85.7% of master's graduates remained in the public sector.

Takeaway

This study looks at why some doctors trained in Fiji leave to work elsewhere while others stay. It finds that better training and support can help keep doctors in Fiji.

Methodology

The study used quantitative data from records and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 36 doctors.

Potential Biases

The principal author's prior involvement with the Fiji School of Medicine may have introduced bias.

Limitations

The study did not include diploma dropouts and had underrepresentation of migrants.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 66 doctors, with a mix of genders and ethnicities, including Indo-Fijians and Fijians.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p = 0.0002

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1478-4491-7-9

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