Doctors' career choices in health systems constrained by national medical exams: A discrete choice experiment

Slovenian health care system and possibilities for freelance medical specialists

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the article is to present the results of the research aimed at establishing the current situation in the health care system in Slovenia and verifying whether the possibility and support exist for the introduction of a freelance medical specialist.

METHODS

We conducted a survey among physicians and health care managers. The sample framework covered the total population of physicians and health care managers in Slovenia; surveys were completed by 318 physicians and 52 health care managers.

RESULTS

The results of the quantitative research analysis provided an essential basis for and feedback information about possible areas for improving the current state of the health care system. The conclusions of semistructured interviews also considerably contributed to the elaboration of the freelance medical specialist proposal.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the research point out the need for changes in the Slovenian health care system and the support of the research participants in the implementation of the freelance medical specialist proposal. In the participants' opinions, the possibility of introducing freelance medical specialists would change the work organisation, particularly in terms of additional formalised possibilities for practising in the medical profession, which would further contribute to the overall improvement of the health care system.