Why do physicians choose to train in geriatric medicine?

Objective: There is a shortage of geriatricians in Australia and a need for more trainees in geriatric medicine but training positions are difficult to fill. To address this issue, we investigated when and why current trainees in geriatric medicine chose the subspecialty. Method: A survey was conducted on advanced trainees in geriatric medicine in Australia in 2001. Results: Current trainees chose geriatric medicine at stages extending from undergraduate training to post-Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Physcians (FRACP) with 35% deciding on the sub speciality after passing their FRACP exams. Major influences in choosing geriatric medicine include exposure to the term as a registrar, specialist geriatrician role models, interest in general medicine, holistic medicine and teamwork, and the lifestyle and flexibility associated with a career in geriatric medicine. Conclusion: This study has identified some of the issues that influence the decision to undertake geriatric medicine training and the time that such decisions are made.