[Positive and negative perceptions at work: Qualitative study with physicians in a teaching hospital]

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Medical Sociology
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Physician working conditions are often challenging, leading to a high prevalence of occupational diseases, particularly burnout.
• Risk factors for physician burnout vary by medical specialty and hospital setting.
• Qualitative research is needed to understand these factors from the perspective of hospital doctors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and qualify the factors contributing to physician well-being and distress in a hospital setting.
• To gain insights into the lived experiences of hospital doctors regarding their work environment.
• To identify key themes influencing job satisfaction and occupational health among physicians.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing in-depth interviews with hospital doctors.
• Analysis of interview data using Grounded Theory methodology.
• Selective coding to identify major themes from doctors' experiences.

Main Results:

• Nine doctors participated, sharing both positive and negative work experiences.
• Four major themes emerged: work organization, teamwork, hospital work, and academic work.
• Teamwork, hospital work, and academic work were identified as dual sources of well-being and ill-being, contingent on specific situational factors.

Conclusions:

• Working in a hospital environment holds significant meaning for physicians.
• The hospital setting can be a source of both professional fulfillment and significant psychological distress, including anxiety.