Factors Leading to Brain Drain of Speech and Hearing Professionals in India

Abstract

Introduction: India lacks workforce in the field of speech and hearing leading to the hire of speech and hearing technicians at many work setups. They are allowed to work independently which affects the efficacy of rehabilitation to a greater extent. This alarm necessitates the investigation of reasons for brain drain which will, in turn, help in improvising the speech and hearing services in India. Methods: An e-survey was conducted by circulating a questionnaire which included 10 questions seeking information on the type of job placement, number of shifts in job, the reasons for shifting jobs, satisfaction level at workplace, and percentage of professionals preferring India and/or abroad for job placement. The questionnaire was sent to 3700 professionals, out of whom 360 professionals responded. Results: Lower income, poor professional growth, and unsatisfied job profile were found to be the major reasons for brain drain in India. Conclusion: A regular detailed investigation of reasons for frequent brain drain is required by the concerned bodies in India. In addition, steps should also be taken to rectify the same. Such careful actions may increase the potential employment opportunities for efficient fully trained speech and hearing professionals in India. This will, in turn, raise good quality speech and hearing services in India.