The good doctor - strong and persevering

In today’s society, doctors are confronted with a number of opposing interests, from other colleagues, patients and employers. The development and regulation of the medical profession have been widely studied. However, less research has been devoted to the doctors’ own perception of what it means to be a good doctor.

We conducted eight focus-group interviews and three individual interviews among senior consultants and specialty registrars in the areas of surgery, psychiatry and internal medicine in two different hospitals. Total N = 48, of which 56  % were women. The interviews were analysed with the aid of systematic text condensation.

«Professional dedication» demonstrated through «a high degree of attendance in the workplace» and «a high work capacity» were key topics for good doctors. Having a «high work capacity» was defined as being willing to go to great lengths, work overtime and work effectively. The senior consultants perceived their job as doctors more as a «lifestyle», while the specialty registrars more frequently regarded their work as a «job».

Norwegian hospital doctors wish to appear dedicated to their profession. They can demonstrate this by showing great willingness to work intensively and effectively with patients, while also going to great lengths to be available beyond normal working hours.