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Revamp training programs to attract, retain more orthopaedic surgeons
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by Per Kjaersgaard-Andersen, MD
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The signs of the current economic situation are as evident in all aspects of European society, including medicine, as they are elsewhere today. But on the continent, this situation, combined with changes in lifestyle trends among younger orthopaedic surgeons and trainees, of wanting to work fewer hours and have more personal vs. professional time, could have serious repercussions in the near future.
In addition, more women are, as a percentage, completing the medical board examination across Europe, but not specializing in musculoskeletal health care as often. Together these factors have produced an effect some predict could be devastating to the future of orthopaedic care: a shortage of orthopaedic surgeons. In this issue of Orthopaedics Today Europe, five experts discuss their optimal solutions to these problems, as well as obstacles to implementing them. These physicians are wise to be thinking so far ahead and noting these trends now.
However, on the economic side of this issue, some forces working against us are almost too strong to counteract or correct for on an individual basis. For example, many orthopaedic surgeons have witnessed first-hand hospitals that have halted their expansion efforts due to financial constraints. With the size of many hospitals conceivably remaining the same, one possible implication is that fewer positions will exist for newly trained orthopaedic and trauma surgeons to fill. With fewer slots to fill, there will inevitably be fewer candidates to fill them over time and therefore our numbers may dwindle drastically. Perhaps more concerning is that this situation is developing at the time when our patients are living longer and wanting more active lifestyles.
Improving orthopaedic surgery training programs is one way we can be proactive. Musculoskeletal training programs must ensure that new orthopaedic and trauma surgeons are equipped with the relevant and necessary skills to treat the diseases and conditions that are increasing in numbers, like hip fractures, joint replacement, back surgery and shoulder injuries. However, those involved in training should also devise programs that promote teamwork, flexible work schedules and the possibilities of combining a career and raising a family. These are the kinds of opportunities younger surgeons will be actively seeking.
To solve the predicted problem of too few orthopaedic surgeons in Europe expected in the coming years, we all need to do whatever we can to ensure that the numbers of orthopaedic departments and new orthopaedic trainees are sufficient and of the highest quality possible. There is no better time to begin that process than now.