SELF-EFFICACY AS A MEDIATOR IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERCEIVED BENEFITS, PERCEIVED BARRIERS AND PGME INTENTION AMONG THE MEDICAL OFFICERS IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

The healthcare sector in Malaysia faces a shortage of specialists due to medical officers hesitating to enrol in postgraduate medical education (PGME). Understanding the factors influencing medical officers' intentions to pursue PGME is essential. This study examines how perceived benefits and perceived barriers may impact medical officers' self-efficacy and intention to pursue PGME. Self-efficacy is investigated as a mediating element in this relationship. Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) served as the basis for the conceptual framework in this study. A cross-sectional survey involved 300 medical officers from healthcare clinics and hospitals in Malaysia. Employing structural equation modelling (SEM) with bootstrapping, the analysis revealed that medical officers perceiving higher benefits demonstrated higher self-efficacy to pursue PGME. In contrast, perceived barriers exhibited a significant negative relationship with self-efficacy. Moreover, self-efficacy was positively associated with PGME intention and mediated the relationship between perceived benefits and barriers. The study's findings bear significance for educational institutions, healthcare stakeholders and policymakers in refining strategies related to PGME.