A recent study conducted by the Catalan Institute of Health (ICS) has found that family and community medicine (MFIC) is the top choice among medical students taking the MIR test in Barcelona in 2023. The study revealed that 75% of candidates chose MFIC, making it the most preferred specialty among students.
The study reported that a total of 2,455 places were offered for MFIC in 2023, which accounted for 28.7% of the total positions available. This figure is significantly higher compared to the average offer for other specialties, which stood at 135 places.
Laia Serra, a resident doctor at CAP El Clot, shared her reasons for choosing MFIC. She explained that primary care values resonated with her approach to medicine, and she appreciated the relationship between professionals and patients in primary care settings.
Yoseba Cánovas, the head of Teaching at the Directorate of Primary and Community Care of the Catalan Institute of Health (ICS), emphasized the attractive nature of the MFIC specialty to MIR candidates. The competitive preference index used in the study highlighted the appeal of MFIC compared to other specialties.
The study also compared the preference for MFIC against other specialties in major cities, including Zaragoza, Valencia, Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona. It found that MFIC was preferred over a majority of laboratory and central service specialties, as well as surgical and medical specialties.
Cánovas stated that the initial study focused on data from 2023, and further analysis from previous years and 2024 would provide more insight into the appeal of family and community medicine. The findings of the study reflect the growing interest in primary care and its importance in healthcare delivery. EFE