Generation Z--striking the balance: healthy doctors for a healthy community.

Abstract

We have a multigenerational workforce. Popular social science has loosely divided the five living generations into the 'builders' (or matures/veterans), 'baby boomers' and the respective generations 'X', 'Y' and 'Z'. Arguably identity is more keenly formed by generation than by either gender or religion. We have three generations currently engaged in the workforce: the baby boomers, generation X and generation Y. Each generation is labelled with their own unique traits. All generations bring their generational traits to the medical profession. The baby boomers have traditionally worked longer hours and seen medicine as a tireless vocation. This has made them the workhorses of the profession. Generation X and Y are defined by an increased grasp on technology, mobility and an ideology that seeks a balance in life. Generation Z (born 1991-2006) is likely to follow in aunty Y's footsteps in terms of behaviour. If the current models of medical education continue we can expect our first Z doctor to begin work as an intern in 2017.

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