Career decisions: factors that influence the M āori doctor

Background M āori have known health disparities that may be addressed through increasing the cultural competency of N ew Z ealand's medical workforce. There is a paucity of M āori health professionals choosing paediatrics or adult medicine as a career and the factors influencing their career decision are yet to be explored. Aims First, to differentiate factors influencing the medical career choice of non‐ M āori paediatricians and physicians, M āori paediatricians and physicians and other M āori doctors. Second, to identify ways in which M āori doctors may be encouraged to choose paediatricians or adult medicine. Methods A questionnaire was distributed by email to New Zealand physicians and paediatricians and to M āori doctors. Questions included demographic information, a matrix rating table and open‐ended questions. Results Altogether 199 people accessed the questionnaire. Response rates were 9% ( n = 118) for non‐ M āori paediatricians and physicians, 70% ( n = 19) for M āori paediatricians and physicians, and 31% ( n = 62) for other M āori doctors. M āori paediatricians and physicians highlighted mentoring as having significant impact on career choice. Non‐ M āori paediatricians and physicians regarded interest as having the most influence on career choice ( P < 0.01). Lifestyle factors influenced other M āori doctors ( P < 0.001). All three groups regarded poor lifestyle as having the largest negative influence. No group regarded potential income as important. Conclusion Mentoring provides an opportunity to attract M āori into paediatric and adult physician training. The use of existing mentoring programmes could facilitate in expanding M āori RACP workforce development. This extended M āori workforce would have benefits for the health of N ew Z ealand as a whole.