Recruitment and retention in psychiatry

We read with interest the literature review by Brockington & Mumford (2002) on recruitment into psychiatry. We agree it is possible that recruitment might be improved by influencing medical student intakes and having greater understanding of the pathways leading to a psychiatric career. However, we believe that the factors governing career choice at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels are uncomplicated. Students on clinical attachments in psychiatry are exposed to wards which are often dirty, unpleasant, frightening and understaffed. They see a service that is underfunded and, subsequently, staff with low morale and burnout. It is hardly surprising that many pursue alternative specialities.

Attempts to encourage potential and existing recruits by repackaging psychiatry at any nodal point in a medical career are likely to fail unless there is the financial investment to provide fully resourced working environments. Attractive conditions might also reduce stigma, contributing further to recruitment. The findings of a study being carried out by the Royal College of Psychiatrists looking at why psychiatrists leave the profession and retire early will be of interest to us all (Camm, 2002).