Ageism and Intergenerational Gaps between Senior Physicians and Young Residents in the Healthcare System

ABSTRACT

Recent protests staged by medical residents in the Israeli healthcare system to shorten their 26-hour shifts revealed a complex intergenerational relationship between senior physicians and residents. This qualitative study examines this intergenerational gap, which could create ageist attitudes and a hostile work environment. The findings reveal differences in the perception of the medical profession: the older generation prioritize the practice of medicine over other aspects of life, while the younger residents seek a better work–life balance. Furthermore, the findings also reveal a mutual respect and appreciation which illustrates the ambivalence of the complex intergenerational relationship.

KEYWORDS:

• Intergenerational gap
• ageism
• medical residents
• senior physicians

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).