Factors Influencing the Decision on the Selection of Allied Health Careers Among Singapore Residents

Abstract

Background: Singapore's ageing population has created significant healthcare workforce shortages, especially in allied health. This called for the urgent need to increase the local manpower to mitigate this issue.

Objective:To understand the factors influencing career choices in allied health among Singaporean youths.

Methods:This study utilized an online questionnaire to collect data. The questionnaire was distributed via social media, targeting Singaporean residents between the ages of 16 and 30 years, excluding existing allied health students/professionals. A subgroup analysis was also done by splitting respondents into 3 age groups (16-18, 19-24, and 25-30 years).

Results: Among the 305 responses collected, the most preferred allied health professions were psychologist, dietitian or nutritionist, and counsellor. Across all age groups, the top deterring factors were long hours, exhaustion, or working overtime, and low paying profession. For ages 16-18 and 19-24 years, increased salary and flexible work schedule were the top enticing factors. For respondents aged 25-30 years, flexible work schedule was the top factor instead, followed by increased salary.

Conclusions: Generally, the top enticing factors included increased salary, flexible work schedule and positive work environment, while the top deterring factors were long hours, exhaustion, working overtime, low paying profession, and financial issues incurred from allied health education. The subgroup analysis revealed some deviations of priorities between the different age groups which could be suggestive of the difference in perceptions between age groups. Larger, comparative studies are required to understand the needs and perceptions of young Singaporean residents more comprehensively.