Job Satisfaction and Associated Factors among Physicians

Abstract

Job satisfaction of the employees represents the significant factor for the effective functioning of the medical facilities. The aim of this study is to examine job satisfaction of physicians and to explore its associated factors. Quantitative study method is applied in this study. Two hundred and nine physicians from the large medical facilities in Tbilisi (Georgia) are participated in the survey. The most important components of satisfaction were: relation with managers (78.5%), relations with colleagues (77%), communication with patients (73.5%), possibility of continuous medical education (74.2%), and service quality (66%). Younger physicians were more likely to be dissatisfied than older physicians. Women were less satisfied with workload rather than men, which can be related with burden of solving the family issues for them, besides the career. Majority of the inquired respondents are not satisfied with ongoing incomes and remuneration methods. Family physicians seemed to be especially dissatisfied with remuneration. Most of the interviewed physicians (76%) assessed work/life balance in range of 1–3 points. Particular dissatisfaction was stated by the doctor-specialists, referring that they do not work with normal work schedule and their work/life balance is infringed. Satisfaction level depends on multiple factors (communication with patients, intellectual stimulation, possibility of CME, relationship with colleagues and managers). The main recommendation is a need to address job satisfaction among physicians in order to improve the quality of health care. Attention to working conditions, career and professional development, and salary/incentives is critical for sustaining the continuity of quality health care in Georgia.