Quantity and distribution of otolaryngologists in public and private health sectors in Chile
Main Article Content
Keywords
Otolaryngologists, distribution, public health sector
Abstract
Introduction: Constantly there are mentions that there is a shortage of otolaryngologists in Chile. It is unknown the reality of the distribution between public and private health sector. Aim: The objective of this study was to determine the amount and distribution of otolaryngologists working in the public and private health sector in Chile. Material and method: A cross-sectional study that used the records of the Ministry of Health, Chilean Society of Otolaryngology, Superintendent of Health, and Department of Health Statistics and Information. Results: There are 152 specialists working in the public sector, in contrast to the 405 total in the country, corresponding to 37,5% of total professionals working in the public sector. In assessing the relationship between total otolaryngologists in the country with the total population, and otolaryngologists working in the public sector and the beneficiary population of FONASA, there is a relationship of 1 ORL/42.589 and 1 ORL/85.162 inhabitants, respectively. Discussion: The main problem in Chile is not the amount of otolaryngologists, but its distribution, which is very asymmetric between the private and public sector. It is necessary to promote the retention of specialists in the public sector.
