Predictors of career satisfaction among physicians: Observations from a tertiary care center

Introduction: Career satisfaction is vital to attain the superlative quality of work; dissatisfaction can consequently impact physicians' performance. This study was conducted to ascertain the level of physicians' satisfaction at work as well as identifying influencing factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Participants were clinicians serving in different specialties for 2 years or more after finishing their training. Job satisfaction was assessed through a self-administered questionnaire. Response to each question to each question was devised using 5-point Likert scale on a wide range of demographics, job characteristics, and five main domains of job satisfaction. Data analysis was executed using SPSS package (v. 24). Results: A total of 159 clinicians participated in our study. Majority of the participants were Saudi (145, 91.2%), with 113 male (71%). Age ranged between 30 and 40 years. 140 were married (88%). In general, more than one-third of the physicians were dissatisfied with their overall job condition 60 (38.0%). The most important prognosticators of career satisfaction were found to be age, years of experience, and type of practice (public vs. private or both). When a multivariate analysis, regression model was applied, “clinicians satisfaction with workload” and “time and energy spent on administrative tasks” were found to have a negative effect on job satisfaction. Conclusion: More than one-third of the clinicians were generally dissatisfied with their overall job condition. Goals should be directed to improve the elements that adversely affect career satisfaction. Necessary interventions are indicated to improve clinicians' performance in clinical practice, maximize the quality of care, and maintain stable workforce.