Fit in die Zukunft. Personalakquise und Entwicklungen der Weiterbildungsstrukturen in der Gynäkologie

Background: The working conditions in German clinics have changed considerably over the past years. An increasing problem is the shortage of medical staff, particularly in areas of gynecology and obstetrics. In 2013, 645 continuing medical education certifications were awarded in the field of gynecology and obstetrics (5.8 % of all continuing medical education certifications). During recent years, the percentage of these certifications awarded to women has continued to increase: in 2013, this figure was 84 %. Female students interested in the field stressed the importance of family and recreational time compared to other aspects such as income, team orientation, the variety of work-related tasks, or scientific employment. Even though 61 % of clinicians are female, the proportion of female senior physicians registered by the BÄK is only 24 %. Discussion: Important objectives are: to raise the interest of female students in the field and encourage them specialize in it; to structure continuing education programs and clinical routine such that the work represents an attractive and feasible future prospect for young colleagues. It is particularly important to motivate female staff with a family-friendly structure and working hours during continuing education, but also by providing individual career counselling for taking on responsibility and senior positions. Conclusion: Recruitment of a new generation of medical staff, particularly in gynecology, will be of central importance during the coming years. Recruitment programs have to be initiated early to target students; structured continuing education and internal programs aimed at improving the working environment or furthering personal development are core elements of a scheme for attracting and binding staff.