Young doctors’ choices regarding specialist training grants

The exodus of doctors from the public health service begins immediately after they graduate in medicine. When young doctors have to decide which specialism to pursue – a 3–5-year training programme that is essential for gaining clinical experience – many turn their noses up at any career path leading to a role in a public hospital.

The data – compiled by Als Anaao Giovani for *Il Sole 24 Ore* – reveal a clear divide linked to the unattractive earning potential within the National Health Service: amongst the least popular specialisms – with unfilled places ranging from 50 per cent to 87 per cent – include those leading to careers as microbiologists and virologists (which have fallen completely out of favour since the Covid pandemic), as well as pharmacologists, clinical pathologists, radiotherapists, primary care or palliative care doctors – who work largely in the public sector – and, as mentioned, A&E doctors. Even the surgical profession is losing its appeal, perhaps due to the risks of criminal proceedings and claims for compensation.

Here are the least sought-after and most popular medical specialisms: