title: Choosing to do obstetrics in practice: factors affecting the decisions of third-year family practice residents.
abstract: To investigate factors influencing a resident's decision to participate in obstetrical care, a survey was undertaken of program directors and third-year residents from the 16 Michigan family practice residency programs. Responses indicated that the majority of third-year residents (55%) intended to practice obstetrics on graduation. Rural practice plans were significantly correlated with a decision to practice obstetrics, but suburban practice plans were negatively correlated. Residents who reported the presence of a good family practice obstetric role model were significantly more likely to practice obstetrics; residents deciding against obstetrical practice expressed concerns about legal liability and malpractice fees. These findings have important implications for family practice training programs if obstetrics is to remain a central part of comprehensive family care.
mesh_terms: D002321:Career Choice; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D007351:Insurance, Liability; D007396:Internship and Residency; D008019:Life Style; D008824:Michigan; D009774:Obstetrics / Q000193:education*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires