Sources of anxiety in young rural physicians working alone on remote islands: A qualitative study

Abstract

Abstract Background We aimed to examine the sources of anxiety for young rural physicians working alone on remote islands. Methods Semistructured interviews were conducted on six physicians who worked on remote islands. The Steps for Coding and Theorization method was used to analyze the content of the interviews. Results Twelve concepts were generated and categorized into four themes: solo practice, the tight‐knit community, limited human and medical resources, and future career. Conclusion Young rural physicians' anxieties in solo practice on a remote island are complicated and include multiple dilemmas. Recognizing these anxieties helps with metacognition and professional development in these individuals.

Keywords

• anxiety
• remote islands
• rural medicine
• solo practice
• young physicians