Training of adult nephrologists in Argentina: open doors and empty chairs

Abstract

Objective: To identify the motivations of graduates for choosing nephrology as a specialty and explore possible reasons for the loss of interest in it, to characterize nephrology specialization programs in the country, and to compare the interest of Argentine and foreign graduates in the available positions. In Argentina, there are fewer residents in nephrology and more positions in training programs remain vacant. Material and methods: A qualitative-quantitative study (2018-2023) involving nephrology residents, training educators and training centers. The study investigated participants’ perceptions, types of programs, number of residents and nationality, as well as available and filled positions. Results: A total of 122 residents, 51 trainers, and 44 centers participated. Reasons for choosing nephrology included its clinical component, breadth and complexity, and attraction to a specific area.The main reasons for disinterest were the lengthy training period, work overload, uncertain job prospects, and low professional remuneration. At the time of the study, there were 17 basic residencies, 11 post-basic residencies, and 16 specialization careers in operation. There 208 residents in total (43% of them foreign). Between 2017 and 2021, 422 positions were available, of which 341 (81%) were filled. Conclusions: The vacant positions reflect a lack of interest in nephrology among Argentine graduates, which is not seen among foreign graduates. This may impact the nephrology workforce in the coming years.

Keywords

• Medical education. Postgraduate. Specialization. Residencies.