Assessment of physicians’ career satisfaction in the Silesian Voivodeship, Poland

Abstract

Aim: To assess the career satisfaction of physician’s in the Silesian Voivodeship, Poland, in relation to selected factors. Materials and Methods: The questionnaire survey was conducted among 701 physicians and dentists from the Silesian Voivodeship, Poland, in the period from January to December 2018, using the PAPI (Paper and Pencil Interview) method. Physicians’ Career Satisfaction was measured and basic socio-demographic, economic and occupational data, concerning lifestyle and health, and also the level of life satisfaction according to the SWLS (Satisfaction with Life Scale) were collected. Moreover, the occurrence of anxiety and/or depressive symptoms according to the HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) were included in the analyses. Results: The career satisfaction of the surveyed Silesian physicians and dentists was moderate. Wages and combining personal life with work were rated the lowest, while interpersonal opportunities were rated the highest. The predictors: age, economic status and body mass index (BMI) were significant; in addition, in younger age group (25-49 years) - practicing sports and chronic fatigue, and in older age group (50-80 years) - the presence of a chronic disease. A moderate correlation between the level of career satisfaction and life satisfaction was revealed, as well as a lower score in people with the occurrence of anxiety and/or depression symptoms. Conclusions: The diversified level of career satisfaction of physicians in separated aspects makes it necessary to verify them both at the level of health care units and at higher levels.