Accusations of medical malpractice are becoming increasingly common among healthcare professionals and are a significant source of stress, which can lead to the development of medical malpractice stress syndrome (MMSS). It is often compared to post-traumatic stress disorder, and the doctors are often referred to as the „second victims” of medical errors. Concerns about the legal consequences of medical errors may affect future specialization choices. In recent years, there has been a decline in interest in choosing surgical specializations and a high risk of medical graduates receiving a medical error lawsuit.
In order to assess the relationship between the risk of being sued in specific specializations and the choice of specialization by medical students, a survey was conducted among fourth- to sixth-year medical students studying in Poland. The students' substantive knowledge of medical law and techniques for coping with occupational stress were also assessed.
More than half of the respondents assess their knowledge regarding medical errors and coping with stress as insufficient. Students of higher years of studies and women were less likely to consider choosing surgical specializations that belong to the group of high-risk specializations. However, older students rated their knowledge of medical law and stress coping techniques more positively. In conclusion, students show less interest in choosing high-risk specializations and indicate a need to broaden the scope of knowledge provided during their studies in the field of medical errors and stress management techniques.