Expectations about the Future in a Population of Argentine Cardiologists

Background: Studies on the professional status of cardiologists in Argentina demonstrated that worse quality of life was associated with lower incomes and poorer working conditions. Knowledge of cardiologists’ present and future perceptions and expectations is necessary for the individual and proper organization of each professional, as well as for the design of public policies.Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the present and future perceptions about the professional and economic situation of cardiologists in Argentina and analyze individual and common characteristics associated with negative perceptions.Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study, based on an electronically delivered survey on the demographics, working characteristics and present, in 10 years and at retirement perceptions of professional situation, defining “Bad” or “Very bad” answers as a negative perception.Results: A total of 236 cardiologists answered the survey; 26% were women and 57.1% were from CABA and the Buenos Aires suburban area. The perceived professional situation was: a) Current: Bad/Very bad 9.7%, Fair 45.1%, Good/Very good 45.1%; b) In 10 years: Bad/Very bad 17.1%, Fair 44.6%, Good/Very good 38.3%; c) At retirement: Bad/Very bad 49.1%, Fair 30.3%, Good/Very good 20.6%. Univariate analysis showed greater negative expectation at retirement in: heart disease (p=0.007), coronary risk factors (p=0.027), anxiety/depression (p=0.016), main breadwinner supporting more than three children/relatives (p=0.034) and having suffered any disease (p=0.03). The presence of four factors (or hidden variables) was established in the principal component analysis, probingly defined as: vulnerability, over-adaptation, overt disease and insulated autonomy.Conclusions: Although cardiologists consider that the present is promising, the near future and retirement impress like a threatening and negative reality. This could then be the opportunity to assume a deep and critical attitude to change the ways of working in order to promote a safer and better future.