Emigration Intentions and Associated Factors Among Dentists and Dental Students in Islamabad, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Brain drain refers to the migration of highly skilled professionals from their home country to more developed nations. In Pakistan, an increasing number of dental healthcare workers are considering emigration, leading to a shortage of professionals in the field.

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the key factors driving the emigration intentions of dental healthcare workers in Pakistan.

Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in dental colleges in Islamabad over a two-month period using convenience sampling. Data were collected from 361 dentists and dental students through a self-developed structured questionnaire distributed both physically and electronically. The tool comprised four domains: demographic characteristics, emigration intentions, push and pull factors, and retention strategies. Content validity was assessed through expert review, and reliability testing demonstrated a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.70. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were computed, and associations between categorical variables were assessed using the Chi-square test, with p?0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: A total of n=246 (68.1%) participants expressed intentions to move abroad, primarily due to economic factors (n=208, 56.8%), better living standards (n=203, 56.2%), and financial independence (n=188, 52.1%). Workplace challenges, including low salaries (n=203, 56.2%), limited career progression (n=184, 50.9%), and job insecurity (n=114, 31.6%), were significant push factors. Among those intending to stay in Pakistan (n=115, 31.9%), family commitments (n=70, 19.4%), a desire to serve the country (n=51, 14.1%), and difficulties adjusting abroad (n=48, 13.3%) were the primary reasons. Participants emphasized increased salaries (n=294, 81.4%), improved work environments (n=246, 68.1%), and enhanced postgraduate training opportunities (n=176, 48.8%) as crucial measures to mitigate brain drain.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that economic instability and limited career growth opportunities are the primary factors driving dental professionals to consider emigration. These issues must be addressed through financial reforms, better professional infrastructure, and clear career pathways to retain skilled professionals. Sustainable policies must be implemented to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure long-term national development.