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GP job satisfaction in 1987, 1990 and 1998: lessons for the future?
1National Primary Care Research and Development Centre, Williamson Building, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
Family Practice
|October 6, 2000
Summary
General practitioner job satisfaction declined then improved post-1990 reforms, but stress levels increased. This study tracked physician satisfaction and stressors over a decade.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Medical Workforce Research
- General Practice
Background:
- Physician job satisfaction impacts retention, turnover, and performance.
- British general practice underwent significant organizational changes between 1987 and 1998.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in general practitioner (GP) job satisfaction from 1987 to 1998.
- To analyze trends in GP job satisfaction during a period of major reform in British general practice.
Main Methods:
- Utilized postal surveys of national GP samples in 1987, 1990, and 1998.
- Employed a standardized job satisfaction scale and a list of 14 job stressors.
- Achieved sample sizes of 1817 (1987), 917 (1990), and 1828 (1998) GPs.
Main Results:
- Overall GP job satisfaction decreased from 1987-1990, then rose by 1998, yet remained below 1987 levels.
- Women consistently reported higher job satisfaction than men.
- Stress levels increased for eight stressors between 1987-1990, with some continuing to rise or emerging later.
Conclusions:
- GP job satisfaction has improved since the 1990/1991 NHS reforms' low point.
- Despite improved satisfaction, stress related to many work aspects has escalated.
- Findings inform understanding of GP job satisfaction determinants and anticipate impacts of future reforms.