First- and fifth-year medical students' intention for emigration and practice abroad: A case study of Serbia

- 80.6% medical undergraduates in the study have considered emigration and practice abroad.
- Quality of life and limited vacancy are push factors for respondents' consideration to work abroad.
- 6.6% respondents had a concrete plan for work abroad or have started preparing for working abroad.
- Respondents who have been abroad before for a study purpose and who have a relative or friend abroad more likely have a firm plan to work abroad.
- Study findings support the creation of central register for health workers mobility in Serbia.

Health worker migration is causing profound health, safety, social, economic and political challenges to countries without special polices for health professional' mobility. This study describes the prevalence of migration intentions among medical undergraduates, identifies underlying factors related to migration intention and describes subsequent actions in Serbia. Data were captured by survey of 938 medical students from Belgrade University (94% response rate), representing two thirds of matching students in Serbia stated their intentions, reasons and obstacles regarding work abroad. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and a sequential multivariate logistic regression. Based on descriptive and inferential statistics we were able to predict the profile of first and fifth year medical students who intend or have plans to work abroad. This study contributes to our understanding of the causes and correlates of intent to migrate and could serve to raise awareness and point to the valuable policy options to manage migration.