[The psychosocial work environment of junior physicians in Danish oncology departments. A questionnaire-based...

Employees in departments of oncology in Denmark are faced with the public's expectations of increased productivity and quality. Understaffing is a serious obstacle to the fulfillment of these expectations. In 2006, the psychosocial work environment was examined among junior physicians working in Danish departments of oncology.

The Department of Occupational Medicine at Aarhus University Hospital conducted a psychosocial work environment-questionnaire among 121 junior physicians employed at six departments of oncology in May 2006. Participation was voluntary and anonymous.

The response rate was 87%. Meaningfulness and developing potentiality of employment as well as involvement in the workplace were rated higher by the junior physicians than by average Danish workers. However, as for quantitative and emotional work demands and the experience of influence and predictability at work, the assessment of the psychosocial work environment is significantly poorer. There is considerable inter-departmental variation. The junior physicians call for more staff, a higher prioritization of education, and an improved psychosocial work environment.

Despite meaningfulness and developing potentiality of employment, the psychosocial work environment of junior physicians in Danish departments of oncology is perceived as significantly poorer than that of average Danish workers. This study provides a basis for developing strategies to improve working conditions and facilitate the recruitment and maintenance of junior physicians in clinical oncology.