Analysis of the Causes and Determinants of Female Physicians' and Nurses' Migration: A Policy-Oriented Approach; [تحلیل علل و عوامل مؤثر در مهاجرت پزشکان و پرستاران زن رویکردی مبتنی بر ارائه راهکارهای سیاستی] Publisher



Peykari N ; Djalalinia S ; Nakhostin M ; Abiri A ; Dastjerdi M V
Source: Avicenna Journal of Clinical Medicine Published:2026

Abstract

Background and Objective: Female physicians and nurses face greater organizational and gender-related pressures than other healthcare workers due to their simultaneous professional, familial, and social roles. This study aimed to analyze the factors influencing migration, gender differences, consequences, and managerial strategies related to the migration of female physicians and nurses. Materials and Methods: A three-phase mixed-methods approach was employed. The first phase involved a systematic review of the literature; the second phase, a qualitative analysis based on semi-structured interviews; and the third phase, finalizing the findings through an expert panel. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis, and findings from all phases were integrated using a convergent approach. To enhance the methodological rigor and validity of the findings, the MOOSE and COREQ checklists were applied in the systematic review and qualitative analysis, respectively. Results: The findings indicated that the migration of female physicians and nurses is a multidimensional, structural, and gender-sensitive phenomenon. The influencing factors included gender-based discrimination, inefficiencies in human resource policies, high workload, job insecurity, limited career advancement opportunities, and weak organizational support. Additionally, women were more affected than men by conflicts between professional and family roles. The consequences of this trend included shortages of skilled healthcare personnel, reduced equity in access to health services— particularly for women and children—and weakened sustainability of the health system. Conclusion: Managing the migration of female physicians and nurses requires a comprehensive, multilevel, and gender-sensitive approach. Addressing discriminatory structures, promoting work-life balance, and strengthening governance of human health resources are essential to preserve this critical workforce. © 2026 Avicenna Journal of Clinical Medicine.