Perception of Postgraduate Medical Trainers and Trainees on Residency Training Program in a Developing Country and its Influence on Brain Drain

Abstract

Background: Nigeria has been faced with the challenge of massive efflux of senior trainees and young consultants. It is commonly believed that the emigration is for economic reasons.

Aim: We studied the trainer’s and trainee’s perception of residency in Nigeria and its influence on brain drain.

Materials and Methods: This cross‑sectional study was carried out using an online survey platform. Invitation to complete the survey was sent out through closed social media groups (Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram) and e‑mail. These groups were specifically for doctors who had their basic medical education in Nigeria and presently working in Nigeria or outside the borders of Nigeria.

Results: Most respondents were in training and were between 25 and 44 years old. The top reason for emigration for trainees already abroad was to improve the quality of their training while the top reason for trainees planning to emigrate was to get better training. There was a discordance between the mentorship methods employed by trainers and preferences of trainees. While majority of the trainees already abroad were unlikely to return, most of the trainees considering emigration were willing to stay if training improved.

Conclusion: Nigerian trainers and trainees have similar perceptions about residency training, and the brain drain being experienced presently may be reversible with improvement in training in the country.