Factors Influencing Preferences in International Ophthalmology Subspecialty Fellowships Among Young Ophthalmologists in Türkiye: A Descriptive Study
Makaleler > Tam Makale · 2025
Yazarlar: Uğur TUNÇ, Atalay AKTUNA, Yusuf Berk AKBAŞ, Ömer Faruk PEKER, Yusuf YILDIRIM
Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Ophthalmology, Uluslararası, 2025, cilt 34, ss 147-159
DOI: 10.5336/ophthal.2025-109307
Özet
Objective: This study explores the interest in international ophthalmology subspecialty fellowship training among young ophthalmologists in Türkiye, focusing on demographic factors, motivations, and barriers. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an anonymous online survey from April to July 2024. A total of 232 ophthalmologists from 14 institutions were included. Participants were categorized into 3 groups: no interest (Group 1), interested but not applied (Group 2), and active applicants or past participants (Group 3). Factors associated with interest and application were assessed using Pearson's chi-square test in bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression analysis in multivariate analyses. Results: The mean age was 28.9±3.6 years; 48.3% were female. Group 1 included 43 participants (18.5%), Group 2 had 126 (54.6%), and Group 3 had 63 (27.2%). The most preferred subspecialties were cataract and refractive surgery (72%), cornea and ocular surface diseases (52.6%), and oculoplastic surgery (52.6%), with the latter significantly higher among residents. Most preferred destinations were the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, and Canada. Career development was the primary motivator, while familial obligations were the main barrier. Specialists, those knowledgeable about opportunities, and those proficient in foreign languages were more likely to apply (p<0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed foreign language proficiency as a key differentiating factor between interest and non-interest groups (p<0.001). Conclusion: There is a strong interest in international ophthalmology subspecialty fellowships among young ophthalmologists in Türkiye. This study highlights significant demographic, sociological, and academic factors influencing this interest.