DETERMINANTS OF ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION AMONG FAMILY MEDICINE DOCTORS IN ESTABLISHING PRIVATE SPECIALIST CLINICS IN THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA/BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Abstract

Particularly as health systems seek to improve efficiency, service quality and innovation, the entrepreneurial intention of health professionals has become an area of growing interest. However, particularly in transitional healthcare systems such as that of the Republic of Srpska, little research has focused on the entrepreneurial intention of family physicians. The purpose of this study is the investigation of the level of entrepreneurship intent among general practitioners in the Republic of Srpska, and the identification of key psychological and background factors that influence entrepreneurship intent. A 121-sample of general practitioners practising in the Republic of Srpska was surveyed using a quantitative cross-sectional survey. The survey instrument is based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and regression modelling. Attitude, subjective norm and perceived control factors explained the intention of family medicine doctors (FMDs) to start a private Family Medicine Specialist Clinic (FMSC). There was a significant negative correlation between the intention of setting up a private FMSC and years of experience in family medicine and the job title of FMDs. The study highlights the potential and barriers to promoting entrepreneurship among family physicians in the Republic of Srpska. The entrepreneurial readiness of this key health workforce could be enhanced by addressing systemic barriers and providing targeted training and policy support. The findings provide valuable insights for policy makers, health care administrators and educators who wish to promote innovation and the sustainable development of the health care system in transition economies.