Factors impacting anesthesiology residents in Saudi Arabia when they are planning their future

PURPOSE: This study is undertaken to examine the factors that influence Saudi Board anesthesia residents' preferences in terms of future practice location, fellowship training, and research. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Data on fellowship training, research, and future practice location preferences, as well as demographics, were collected using surveys distributed to all anesthesia residents enrolled at Saudi anesthesiology residency program (N = 302). RESULTS: A total of 117 residents (38.7%) responded to the survey. Of those 88.5% of residents planned on further subspecializing. The most highly sought fellowships were acute and chronic pain, regional anesthesia, simulation, and pediatric anesthesia. Residents pursuing fellowship training were mostly affected by personal interest, improving employment prospects, and future income. Only 11.5% of residents intended to incorporate research into their next practice—personal interest, employability, and lifestyle were the most influential in their decision. CONCLUSION: Most anesthesia residents training in Saudi Arabia choose to pursue fellowship training. However, less than one-fifth have an interest in incorporating research into their future careers.