# The Sociodemographic Determinants of Nurse Exportation: An Analysis of the Willingness of Ghanaian Nurses for Overseas Employment

## TL;DR

This study examines how sociodemographic factors influence Ghanaian nurses' willingness to work overseas, finding that younger nurses and those without dependents are more likely to migrate.

## Contribution

The study introduces a mixed-methods analysis of sociodemographic factors influencing nurse migration in Ghana, highlighting age and dependents as key predictors.

## Key findings

- Younger nurses (18–25 years) show higher willingness to migrate for career and financial reasons.
- Male nurses face fewer mobility constraints compared to female nurses.
- Nurses without children are more likely to migrate than those with dependents.

## Abstract

Nurse exportation, driven by sociodemographic factors, has become a significant trend in many African countries, including Ghana. Factors such as age, gender, marital status, religion, and family responsibilities influence nurses’ willingness to migrate for better economic and professional opportunities. This study explores the sociodemographic dimensions shaping nurse exportation in Ghana, employing a mixed‐methods approach with a sequential explanatory research design. A cross‐sectional survey of 483 nursing students and interviews with seven nurses provided insight into migration patterns. The findings indicate that younger nurses (18–25 years) exhibit a higher willingness to migrate, driven by aspirations for career advancement and financial stability. Gender disparities also play a role, with male nurses facing fewer mobility constraints compared to their female counterparts. In addition, marital status and religion were not found to significantly influence migration decisions, while having dependents emerged as a critical factor, with nurses without children being more likely to migrate. Given these findings, this study recommended that stakeholders prioritize younger nurses for international opportunities, as they exhibit greater flexibility and willingness to relocate. In addition, policies should be developed to support nurses with dependents, such as structured relocation assistance and family reunification programs, to facilitate their participation in overseas employment opportunities.