Faculty retention in regional medical schools in Iran: a qualitative content analysis

Abstract Background and purpose Recruitment retention of competent faculty members are important in maintaining improving the quality education research performance universities. The aim present study was to find out members’ views, experiences, attitudes identify reasons for attrition regional medical schools Iran. Methods In this qualitative study, we used a content analysis method. participants included 12 who had been transferred type I universities, four applied transfer, with more than 10 years experience working 3 universities no intention be transferred. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, which conducted either face-to-face or via phone calls. interview developed (Supplementary file). To measure trustworthiness data, evaluated components credibility, transferability, dependability, conformability, as proposed by Lincoln Guba. Results findings classified into three categories 14 subcategories. first category “retention facilitators” including subcategories facilitated communication, proximity major gaining experience, support authorities. second threats” six social infrastructure, individual dimension, occupation economic sense respect, executive management. third strategies” recruitment promotion processes, inter-university collaboration facilitation scientific growth, fulfilment safety needs. Conclusion Several factors play role Authorities can create positive environment devising suitable reward system, supporting academic activities, increasing level autonomy practically develop belonging among them reduce their human resources.