Medical Brain Drain in Albania: Migration Attitudes Among Medical and Nursing Students

Abstract

Abstract Background: The migration of healthcare professionals poses a serious threat to health systems worldwide. This study examines attitudes toward brain drain and the factors influencing migration tendencies among medical and nursing students in Albania, with particular attention to nursing workforce implications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 610 students in the 2024-2025 academic year using the 16-item Brain Drain Attitude Scale (BDAS). Socio-demographic and academic data were also collected. Results: The mean BDAS score was 53.43 ± 16.88. Pull factors (mean: 40.25 ± 12.76) were stronger motivators than push factors (mean: 13.19 ± 4.13). A total of 487 nursing, 73 midwifery-nursing, and 50 medical students participated (95% response rate). Nearly 40% expressed a desire to work abroad, citing financial prospects (48.2%), better living standards (46%), and personal freedom (42.1%) as reasons. Higher migration tendencies were seen in females (β = 0.50, p = 0.049), medical students (β = 1.01, p = 0.001), and third-year students (β = 0.46, p = 0.011). Conclusions: Migration tendencies are high among future Albanian healthcare professionals, with significant implications for the nursing workforce. Targeted policies are urgently needed to address brain drain through workforce investment and retention strategies.

Keywords: Albania; brain drain; healthcare workforce; medical students; migration; nursing students.