Exploring the regrets for joining medical profession and Its Determinants Among Phase I MBBS Students: A Mixed-Methods Study

Objectives: To determine the proportion of Phase I MBBS students regretting their choice of joining medical profession; and to assess the reasons for regretting their choice of joining medical profession. Methods: This was a questionnaire based, mixed-methods, cross-sectional study conducted among Phase I medical students pursuing Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in MCI/NMC recognised institutions across India. Results: In this study involving 1060 Phase I MBBS students, 32.0% regretted their decision to pursue medicine. Factors contributing to regret included societal pressure, demanding nature of education and profession, lack of support systems, negative patient attitudes, and COVID-19 stress. Notably, 53.7% of those regretting cited the pandemic's influence, while 51.3% desired super specialization. Those regretting were more likely to doubt their career choice before joining (58.1%), compared to 21.6% who didn't regret. Additionally, 56.3% of regretful students preferred clinical specialization, and 34.0% had taken education loans. Demographics showed significance in parental medical background (11.2% regretful vs. 7.2% non-regretful with doctor fathers). Qualitative analysis emphasized the need for parental guidance reconsideration and systemic improvements to alleviate stress and enhance support structures within medical education. Conclusion: The findings underscore the complex interplay of personal, environmental, and systemic factors shaping students' perceptions of their chosen profession. To mitigate the negative consequences of regret and promote career satisfaction among medical students, targeted interventions and support services are needed.