Working status of Spanish pediatric surgeons

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Surgical Workforce Studies
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Understanding the working conditions of pediatric surgeons is crucial for workforce planning and retention.
• Previous studies have indicated potential challenges in work-life balance and job satisfaction within surgical specialties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze work, demographic, and social parameters affecting the working status of pediatric surgeons in Spain.
• To identify specific areas of job satisfaction and dissatisfaction among Spanish pediatric surgeons.

Main Methods:

• An observational, descriptive, cross-border online survey was conducted.
• The survey targeted pediatric surgeons affiliated with the Spanish Society of Pediatric Surgery (SECIPE).
• The survey instrument was inspired by job satisfaction models and designed by the study authors.

Main Results:

• A response rate of 45.8% (133 out of 290 SECIPE members) was achieved.
• Respondents primarily dedicated working hours to healthcare (69% spent 75-100%), with limited time for research (89.4% spent 0-25%) and teaching (80% spent 0-25%).
• Job satisfaction was high regarding colleagues, healthcare role, professional development, and social consideration, but low concerning pay, research/teaching time, and executive board relations.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric surgeons in Spain are largely satisfied with their professional roles and collegial relationships.
• Significant dissatisfaction exists regarding compensation, and the limited time allocated for research and teaching activities.
• These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to improve job satisfaction and address systemic issues affecting the pediatric surgical workforce in Spain.