Characteristics of Faculty at Risk of Leaving Their Medical Schools: An Analysis of the StandPoint™ Faculty Engagement Survey

Purpose: This study seeks to identify the characteristics and attitudes of faculty in US medical colleges who are at risk of leaving their institution. Methods: This research leverages data from the AAMC StandPoint Faculty Engagement Survey administered to 37,779 faculty representing 36 institutions participating during 2013-2016. Univariate and multivariable robust logistic regression models were used to assess predictors of the intent to leave based on the question: "Do you plan to leave this medical school in the next 1-2 years?". Results: Thirty percent (n=5559/18,475) of faculty responded that they were considering leaving their institution. Thirty-one percent of female faculty vs 29% of male faculty expressed an intent to leave. At-risk faculty were likely to be at junior faculty rank and at their institutions for 6-15 years vs other time periods (OR=1.16; p <= 0.001). Having an administrative title (OR=0.72; p <= 0.001) and receiving formal mentorship (OR=0.65; p <= 0.001) were protective. Finally, faculty answering "disagree" or "strongly disagree" to any one of these StandPoint Survey questions were at > 6 fold risk of expressing an intent to leave: 1) I am satisfied with my opportunities for professional development, 2) I feel appreciated by my supervisor, 3) Myday-to-day activities give me a sense of accomplishment. Conclusion: Faculty expressing an intent to leave their institution have an identifiable profile. Top concerns of at-risk faculty relate to supervisory relationships and growth opportunities rather than compensation or governance. Institutional leaders should consider these factors in the development of a proactive strategy to retain talented faculty.