Introduction.

The MIR (médico interno residente, medical internal resident) examination must be passed to gain access to a specialist medical training place in Spain. This study aims to: a) determine the factors that influence the choice of the MIR position; b) assess the degree of information about the selected hospital/center; c) analyze the professional priorities during and after the MIR training; and d) compare the results between sixth year medical students and first year MIR residents.

Material and methods.

An anonymous survey was sent to 370 sixth year medical students and 494 first year residents from Catalonia and Aragon.

Results.

One hundred anf five students and 104 residents (24%) answered the survey. Seventy-one percent of students and 56% of residents preferred to train in a center other than the one in which they had studied. Priority was given to the specialty, above other factors such as the hospital/center or the city. Overall, 90% were informed about the positions, preferably through other residents. Forty-five percent of students and 12% of residents were willing to repeat the MIR exam if they did not have the desired specialty and center as their first choice. Respondents positively valued aspects such as an adequate working environment, a good level of care and optimal working conditions.

Conclusion.

The most important factor in the choice of the MIR position is the desired specialty. In the work center, the level of care, good environment and working conditions are positively valued.

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