Background:

A noteworthy achievement of modern civilization is increasing life expectancy. However, the paradox results from the presence of a non-linear relationship between life expectancy and its quality. Longer life is relatively more often associated with poorer quality of health, which is reflected by an increasing burden of non-communicable chronic diseases in the population of industrialized countries. Insufficient satisfaction of health needs resulting from limited resources of medical staff, and contemporary age patterns inscribed in epidemiological parameters are the common denominator of current challenges to the health care system, as well as Polish and EU health policy. The above-mentioned challenges have become an inspiration for the research team to develop and implement a conceptual research model in the context of the phenomenon of medical deserts.

Aim of the study:

The aim of the study was analysis of the phenomenon of medical deserts from a systemic perspective, with particular consideration of health aspects.

Methodology:

Literature review concerning the phenomenon of medical deserts and career plans of future medical staff. Quantitative study using a questionnaire for analysis of the attitudes and career plans of future physicians. Conducting individual in-depth interviews with system experts.

Results:

The most important incentive for future medical staff is the perspective of work in the field of science, the opportunity to help others, and a sense of self-agency or belonging to a group with a special social status. As a result of the multi-stage study carried out proposals for system recommendations were developed aimed at reducing the phenomenon of medical deserts and incentives to work in depopulated areas.

Conclusions:

Coherent and targeted cooperation between government and local self-government authorities, local and professional communities, can encourage young doctors to work in rural and depopulated areas, and thus help reduce the phenomenon of medical deserts. The presented findings should be considered as preliminary and require further in-depth exploration.