Migration intentions of Lithuanian physicians, nurses, residents and medical students.

Due to a flow of healthcare professionals and students from emerging to industrialized economies, healthcare systems in source countries are facing increasing threats to a people-centered quality of care. This study investigates the prevalence and underlying reasons for emigration intentions among physicians, nurses, residents, and medical students in Lithuania (total N = 1080). In our sample, 39% of students, 21% of residents, 12% of nurses, and 6% of physicians had decided to emigrate within the next two years. Based on statistical analyses of the survey data, we conclude that emigration decisions are linked to socio-demographic (age, gender, family situation), financial, organizational (teamwork climate in hospital) and social (perceived social worth) factors. Implications for policy-making and retention of healthcare workforce are discussed.