Preparing surgery for Generation Z - Motivation and protective factors for pursuing a surgical career among medical students and early-career physicians: a cross-sectional study - Takeaways - MDSpire
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Exploring Factors Influencing Surgical Career Aspirations in Generation Z: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Medical Students and Early-Stage Physicians

  • By

  • Runa Kinitz

  • Kim Klepka

  • Carolina Vogel

  • September 22, 2026

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  • 1

    Healthcare systems are facing surgical workforce shortages, with only 8.9% of female and 6.5% of male medical students considering a surgical career in Germany.

  • 2

    Factors discouraging surgical careers include heavy workloads, hierarchical environments, and challenges in balancing professional and private life.

  • 3

    Surgeons experience significant psychological stress, with approximately 30% reporting depressive symptoms and the profession being at high risk for suicide.

  • 4

    The surgical workforce is aging, with only 21% of hospital-based surgeons under 40, highlighting the need for sustainable training for new specialists.

  • 5

    The study aimed to evaluate factors influencing medical students' and early-stage physicians' decisions regarding pursuing a surgical career.

Original Source(s)

Preparing surgery for Generation Z - Motivation and protective factors for pursuing a surgical career among medical students and early-career physicians: a cross-sectional study

  • by Runa Kinitz, Kim Klepka, Carolina Vogel

  • September 22, 2026

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