Manjola Kola1, Jonida Stefa2, Grejd Hyska3
Abstract
Aim: Migration of health workforce has become a pressing global issue, with significant implications for health system sustainability. The aim of this study was to assess the level of attempted emigration among primary health care personnel in Albania, with a focus on socio-demographic, professional, and economic correlates.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Tirana in February-March 2026 including a sample of 128 primary health care physicians (93% women; overall mean age: 41.9±11.7 years). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire measuring attempted emigration, socio-demographic characteristics, and employment profile. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify factors associated with attempted emigration.
Results: Attempted emigration was reported by 43% of respondents. Male gender, nursing profile, public sector employment, and perceived poor economic status were positively correlated with attempted emigration. Specifically, nurses had more than sixfold higher odds of attempting emigration, whereas professionals reporting a “bad/very bad” economic situation had nearly fivefold higher odds. Although male gender and public sector employment showed strong associations, these findings did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusion: Attempted emigration among Albanian primary health care personnel is seemingly high, reflecting systemic vulnerabilities in the health workforce. Economic hardship, professional profile disparities, and public sector dissatisfaction emerge as critical drivers. Targeted retention policies, competitive remuneration, and improved working conditions are urgently needed to safeguard the sustainability of Albania’s health system and mitigate the broader regional brain drain.
Keywords: Albania, attempted emigration, health workforce, workforce migration.