Professional moral character of physicians and clinical working environment

Abstract

A survey of the experience of Icelandic medical candidates, general physicians, and specialty physicians of clinical work, aimed to show how the working environment affects doctors' moral character and experience of support, well-being and expectations. For comparison, results of a British survey with the same questions for specialty physicians were used. A total of 89 physicians answered 15 questions. Statistical comparison was made between results from topical clusters of questions. The results show a significant problem in work conditions of Icelandic doctors. Their experience is rated low in the second quarter (2,1 - 3,0) on a numerical scale of how the environment thwarts professional character and of lack of support. In comparison with British specialists, their experience is similar but slighly better regarding supportiveness. Icelandic candidates and general physicians experience significantly more stress, less support and autonomy in their work than specialists. Compared to the British, the experience of Icelandic specialists was more positive about professional autonomy and emotional attachment to the work. Our survey shows for the first time the effect of the working environment on professional virtues of Icelandic doctors. These findings resonate with the literature that the moral character of doctors contributes to satisfaction, flourishing and experience of meaningfulness. They substantiate views raised by Icelandic physicians about tremendous work stress and scarcity of staff. The survey demonstrates the doctors' experience of work-related challenges and provides reasons for society to improve their working conditions to enable them to live up to their ideals.