Understanding Migration Intentions of Albanian Physicians and Nurses

Introduction: Migration from Albanian healthcare professionals to Western countries has been widespread since Albania emerged from communism in 1991. The migration of Albanian physicians and nurses has significant impacts on the country's healthcare system. Objective: The manuscript addresses the migration intentions of Albanian healthcare professionals, including physicians and nurses focusing on their inclination to emigrate to Western countries. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 315 participants from two municipalities, Fier and Vlore, examining various factors that impact their desire to seek employment abroad. A structured, culturally adapted questionnaire (18 items; four subscales: migration intention, social worth, teamwork climate, financial dissatisfaction) adapted from Goštautaitė et al. was used; internal consistency was high (Cronbach's α = 0.885). Results: Results indicate a moderate-to-high level of migration intention, particularly pronounced among younger healthcare workers, those with fewer years of professional experience, and individuals working in high-stress departments such as emergency medicine and intensive care. Statistically significant associations were found between migration intention and key variables, including age (p < .01), ward of employment (p < .05), and self-reported financial dissatisfaction (p < .01). Participants citing greater dissatisfaction with income and professional growth opportunities were more likely to express a desire to emigrate. Additionally, poor teamwork climate and low perceived social worth were moderately associated with higher migration intentions, though not all associations reached statistical significance. These findings highlight a widespread perception of undervaluation and burnout, particularly in public sector facilities and among early-career professionals. Conclusions: Financial dissatisfaction and stressful work settings were associated with higher migration intention; policy measures may mitigate these risks. Several systems have piloted targeted retention levers (remuneration, career ladders, dual practice), offering transferable options. Similar interventions could mitigate the brain drain in Albania, improving job satisfaction and financial stability for healthcare workers.