[Reasons for resignations of senior consultant surgeons].

Up to approximately 15-20 years ago it could be safely assumed that the promotion to senior consultant surgeon was a lifetime position. Nowadays it is different. Contracts for senior consultants are normally for an unlimited period but as with other employees there is the possibility to legally terminate the employment conditions and approximately 50% make use of this. The reasons very rarely concern an inability of the physician and are mostly concerned with the surrounding working conditions. Poor contractual structures, incompatibility in the spectrum of responsibilities, financial restrictions by the finance department and poor communication with the finance department and colleagues are the main problem areas. In this article the potential points of conflict are demonstrated.