Perceptions and Knowledge of Anaesthesiology Among Medical Undergraduates: A Survey of Career Pathways and Influences

Abstract

Introduction: Anaesthesiology is a critical yet often underrecognized medical specialty, playing a vital role in patient safety, perioperative care, and pain management. Despite its importance, many medical students lack awareness of its scope, leading to low interest in pursuing it as a career. This study aimed to evaluate the perceptions and knowledge of anaesthesiology among undergraduate medical students in India and identify factors influencing their career choices.

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 137 medical students and interns from various institutions across India. The questionnaire assessed demographic details, knowledge of anaesthesiology, career preferences, and factors affecting specialty selection.

Results: Results revealed that while 81.6% of respondents acknowledged anaesthesiology as a life-saving specialty, only 34.3% considered it as a career option. Key deterrents included limited patient interaction (31.3%), lack of recognition (20.4%), and insufficient exposure during training (18.9%). Conversely, motivators such as work-life balance (25%), growing demand (39%), and diverse clinical roles (20%) were cited by those interested in the field. Exposure to anaesthesiology significantly influenced perceptions, with 45.3% of students who had clinical postings expressing greater interest. Gender differences were observed, with female students prioritizing work-life balance while male students emphasized income and recognition. Early clinical exposure and mentorship were identified as crucial factors in shaping career decisions.

Conclusion: The study highlights the need for curriculum reforms, increased visibility of anaesthesiology in undergraduate training, and targeted awareness campaigns to address misconceptions. Enhancing early exposure and mentorship could attract more students to this essential specialty, addressing global workforce shortages and improving healthcare delivery.