Number of Pakistani physicians working abroad; do we really need to know?

There are around 175,600 registered doctors in Pakistan, but limited data is available about Pakistani physicians pursuing medical careers abroad. Additionally, no data is reported about Pakistani physicians who leave the country to pursue medical career overseas, but end up in non-medical professions. We identified two groups of physicians leaving the country: those going abroad for postgraduate training and residency; and those doing so for better career incentives and monetary benefits and to avoid the deteriorating law and order situation and rising hostilities towards doctors in the last few years. Other factors contributing towards physician's migration include poor service structure and career prospects, lack of research funding, increased workload and stressful work environment. Optimal measures need to be taken so that the locally trained doctors can deliver their services where they are needed the most, instead of seeking overseas opportunities. Similarly, volume of expertise may be enhanced by promoting social accountability among Pakistani physicians working abroad and by creating comparable opportunities within the country.