[Career prospects for ophthalmologists under 49 years old : A survey in Germany].

OBJECTIVE

In Germany, ophthalmological care is mainly provided on an outpatient basis. In general, the first point of contact is the local ophthalmologist. Within the framework of this study the organizational structure as well as its implementation and future prospects were examined from the perspective of younger ophthalmologists.

METHODS

Data from a survey conducted by the German Association of Ophthalmologists (Berufsverband der Augenärzte Deutschlands) in 2016 were evaluated. All members under the age of 49 years received an online questionnaire on their current professional situation, their future prospects (e.g. employment, self-employment and organizational form) and on outpatient care.

RESULTS

A total of 508 persons (54.9% women, mean age 40.8 ± 5.8 years, 85% board certified ophthalmologists) took part in the survey. While the frequency of self-employment and employment in a practice was similar for a specialist activity (after board certification) of up to 5 years (33% vs. 32%), the proportion of self-employment was significantly higher for ophthalmologists with at least 6 years of specialist activity (6-10 years: 70%, >10 years: 74%). Of the women 25% were employed in a practice compared to 14% of men, while more men were self-employed in a practice (62% vs. 43%). Of the qualified specialists 72.3% stated that they wanted to work in the same form of employment in 10 years time. The majority (69%) of physicians who planned to change their form of employment aimed for self-employment in a practice.

CONCLUSION

Most ophthalmologists aimed to work as a self-employed ophthalmologist in a practice in the future. This wish becomes more frequent with longer periods of occupational activity.