Survey regarding the status of senior physicians in German dermatology clinics

The group of senior physicians/assistant medical directors between chairman and residents is in a major focus regarding current changes in the medical system in Germany. The manifold clinical tasks clearly underline the importance of senior physicians as key players; they are neither so regarded nor paid accordingly. In addition senior physicians are responsible for education of residents. To gain insight into the current situation of senior physicians in dermatology information was acquired by a detailed questionnaire. The return-rate of 44.7% was considerably higher than in comparable surveys. The responses show a high degree of satisfaction with medical work, position and interaction with chairman and staff. Most critical was the increasing administrative work and the low salary. This is the first survey in a medical subspecialty among senior physicians in Germany. After the planned new pay schedule is instituted and restructuring of professorship in academic institutions is completed, the survey will be repeated.