Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and shortcomings of the rural order-oriented medical student training program in China, highlighting the high attrition rates and dissatisfaction among graduates who are unable to fulfill their commitments to serve in rural areas [5][6][25]. Group 1: Background of the Program - The rural order-oriented medical student program was initiated in 2010 to address the shortage of medical professionals in rural areas by offering free education to students from these regions, with the expectation that they would return to serve their communities [5][6]. - Over the past 15 years, approximately 90,000 students have been enrolled in this program, which initially alleviated staffing issues in rural healthcare institutions [5][6]. Group 2: Current Challenges - A study published in 2024 revealed that only 17.5% of the surveyed order-oriented medical students were willing to continue their service after the mandatory period, indicating a talent loss rate exceeding 80% [6]. - Factors contributing to this high attrition include early career planning, disparities between urban and rural medical training, and local employers' reluctance to retain non-local talent [6][20]. Group 3: Personal Experiences - Graduates shared experiences of being underutilized in their roles, with some assigned to administrative tasks rather than clinical duties, leading to feelings of frustration and disillusionment [18][20]. - The average salary for these graduates in rural health institutions is significantly lower than expected, with some reporting monthly incomes as low as 3,000 yuan, which is below the average for local medical professionals [20][21]. Group 4: Policy Adjustments - Recent policy changes indicate a shift towards extending the service period for new order-oriented medical students from 6 years to 9 years, aiming to stabilize the workforce in rural healthcare [25]. - The article notes that despite not being directly affected by the new policy, recent graduates are already being asked to sign contracts for extended service periods, which may limit their future career opportunities [25].