Highlights of the 2002 Canadian Neurological Society (CNS) manpower survey.

BACKGROUND

The Canadian Neurological Society commissioned a manpower survey in 2002 to assess demographics, distribution, specialty interests, working conditions, job satisfaction and future plans of neurologists across the country.

METHODS

A survey was mailed to all known Canadian neurologists (n = 694) on two separate occasions. Further encouragement by telephone contact was undertaken. The response rate was 54%.

RESULTS

The mean age of neurologists who responded was 51 years, with 14% being women. Approximately 55% of neurologists were community-based. Seventy-six percent designated a sub-specialty interest. On average, neurologists worked 57 hours per week and the majority had significant "on-call" commitments. Job satisfaction was higher among academic neurologists when compared with community-based neurologists, and greater among men than women. A greater percentage of older neurologists were satisfied with their work than their younger colleagues. Significant attrition in the neurological work force is a major concern, since up to 20% of neurologists reported that they are likely to retire in the next five years and about 15% are likely to reduce their practice.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey suggests that substantial concerns are facing Canadian neurology over the next five years. Major efforts to retain existing expertise and enhance residency training will be required to simply maintain the present quality of neurological care in Canada.