The Migration of Medical Competencies Abroad and its Implications for the Health Sector in Libyan Society: A Sociological Study in the Field of Medical Sociology

Abstract

This research aims to identify the effects of the emigration of medical professionals and its repercussions on the advancement and quality of the health sector in Libyan society, particularly in public hospitals in Tripoli. It also seeks to determine whether this emigration is a reason for the large number of Libyans seeking treatment in Tunisia and Egypt, and whether the return of consultants will contribute to the improvement and quality of medical services and reduce the number of citizens seeking treatment abroad. The researcher adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, using a questionnaire and field interviews with a sample of doctors, directors of public hospitals, and a sample of citizens who had traveled to Tunisia or Egypt for treatment more than ten times. The results showed that the emigration of medical professionals is a cause of the decline in medical services in public hospitals, and that their return will contribute to improving the quality of medical services and reducing the number of citizens seeking treatment abroad. Reasons for the emigration of medical professionals: low salaries, lack of a suitable social, scientific, cultural, political, and security environment, and a shortage of training courses both domestically and abroad. Reasons for attracting them: high salaries, bonuses, training courses both domestically and abroad, and the provision of an administrative, scientific, economic, political, and security environment that guarantees them adecent living. Research recommendations: Establish a committee of relevant parties to determine The number of expatriate medical professionals, their locations, and their specializations, in order to create a comprehensive database and provide a suitable environment to attract them to return to the country and conduct field visits to develop the health sector system, perform examinations and surgeries in public hospitals, and qualify new doctors scientifically and practically.