Table 4 Defining and distinguishing statements for factor 2 (n = 9)

Defining statements

Agrees strongly with the following statements

I value more time for my personal life

I want to be in a large city

The fact that subspecialists can also be general internists is important to me

I want something that pays well given how long we’ve trained

I’d like to do a combination of inpatient and outpatient

Lifestyle and more control over my practice are important

A two-year GIM fellowship is a deterrent

I want to be valued in what I’m doing

I want to be in a field that is in demand

Disagrees strongly with the following statements

GIM is a dumping ground for patients nobody wants

The negative interactions with attendings were important

GIM patients are too complex

I prefer an outpatient-based practice

I am willing to do as many years as it takes to get the job and subspecialty I want

I want to work in a smaller community

Distinguishing statements

Agrees with the following statements more than other factors

I want to be in a large city

The fact that subspecialists can also be general internists is important to me.

A two-year GIM fellowship is a deterrent

Some specialties are not fairly remunerated and this is an important consideration

Disagrees with the following statements more than other factors

The resources of a fellowship program are important

My decision was predominantly based on experiences as a resident

I am willing to do as many years as it takes to get the job and subspecialty I want