Revitalizing human talent: causes, challenges, and strategies for mid-career crisis in radiology and experience at a pediatric reference hospital in Lima, Peru

Abstract

Human talent is the most valuable asset of the educational system. The growth and complexity of teaching and healthcare centers make the recruitment, retention, and development of a qualified and committed workforce essential. It has recently been recognized that a portion of this workforce, specifically those in mid-career, faces unique challenges that need to be addressed. This life stage is marked by the transition from a role of dependency to one of leadership and greater responsibility. The crisis associated with this midlife transition is also reflected in medical careers, including the specialty of radiology. A mid-career radiologist is defined as a professional with a minimum of 5 to 10 years of experience and at least 5 to 10 years remaining before retirement. The "mid-career disease" is characterized by a sense of professional stagnation and lack of clarity about future direction. This crisis may lead professionals to change jobs or even leave their careers altogether. The increased availability of radiological equipment and the rising number of specialists using these technologies for more accurate diagnoses and less invasive treatments have contributed to a global shortage of radiologists.