The effects of physicians’ communication satisfaction and their perceptions of empowerment on their likelihood to recommend a hospital to their peers

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine factors that may contribute to physicians’ dissatisfaction with their work environment, and subsequently, their likelihood to recommend a hospital to their peers.Design/methodology/approachA mixed method research design was used to identify, through qualitative interviews and focus groups, and measure, through quantitative surveys, physicians’ satisfaction with organizational communication, perceptions of empowerment and their likelihood to recommend a hospital to their peer physicians.FindingsThe results of the study indicate that physicians’ communication satisfaction and perceptions of empowerment contribute both directly and indirectly to their likelihood to recommend their organization to peers. The findings suggest that hospitals that facilitate positive workplace communications and provide work environments that allow professional discretion and autonomy are more likely to have satisfied physicians and positive word‐of‐mouth referrals.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough multiple methods of data collection were used to triangulate the findings, there is the potential of common‐method variance and response bias from the use of single source questionnaire data. Ideally, future studies would use longitudinal data and a more comprehensive model of antecedents and consequences of physician satisfaction.Practical implicationsBy understanding sources of physician dissatisfaction, hospitals can develop appropriate interventions to minimize the adverse effects of dissatisfaction on costs, quality of care, and physician turnover.Originality/valueThis study focuses on physicians’ satisfaction with their hospital work environment, an often overlooked area in studies of the health care industry that more commonly center on patient–physician satisfaction. The current study's results provide suggestions for better hospital management and further insight into the challenges of improving physician satisfaction in the health care industry.