Simpson DE, Rediske VA, Beecher A, Bower D, Meurer L, Lawrence S, Wolkomir M. Understanding the careers of physician educators in family medicine.
ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2001;
76:259-265. [PMID:
11242579 DOI:
10.1097/00001888-200103000-00016]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE
Little is known about what contributes to the career decisions of physician educators in family medicine. This study sought to understand the variables that influence these decisions and to identify key sources of vitality for physician educators in family medicine.
METHOD
A national sample of randomly selected physician educators in family medicine responded to a postcard survey regarding their contribution(s) to education and career satisfaction. A series of exclusion criteria were applied to 399 useable responses, yielding 24 physician educators who participated in a semi-structured telephone interview focusing on their careers. Using qualitative research methods, themes were identified and categorized from the transcribed interviews and investigators' field notes.
RESULTS
The career decisions and actions of physician educators in family medicine emanated from an underlying set of values and beliefs associated with "making the world better." Participants sought challenging, diverse, and stimulating positions from which they could have an impact in ways that were consistent with their values. Three major sources of vitality (learners, colleagues, and patients) complemented the desire for challenging positions. Physician educators in family medicine, however, continually struggled to balance their personal and professional lives.
CONCLUSION
The study results highlight the key variables that draw faculty into education and sustain their vitality, and the professional and personal challenges that can derail or support their careers. This information can be used to recruit, develop, and retain successful and productive physician educators in family medicine.
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