Factors Influencing Physicians' Perceived Compensation Satisfaction in China: Cross-Sectional Study.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Medical Economics
• Physician Workforce Studies

Background:

• Physician compensation satisfaction is vital for healthcare system stability and quality.
• Limited research exists on the combined influence of multiple factors on physician pay perception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the multifaceted factors influencing Chinese physicians' perceived compensation satisfaction.
• To identify specific drivers of satisfaction for different physician career stages.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional survey of 325 physicians (April-May 2024).
• Data collected on sociodemographics, compensation transparency, and satisfaction.
• Qualitative comparative analysis used to determine influencing factors.

Main Results:

• Junior physicians' satisfaction linked to compensation transparency, irrespective of salary or hours.
• Senior physicians' satisfaction influenced by salary and transparency, or by transparency, rank, and work hours.
• Distinct pathways to compensation satisfaction identified for junior and senior physicians.

Conclusions:

• Compensation satisfaction determinants differ significantly between junior and senior physicians.
• Tailored, tiered compensation strategies are necessary to enhance physician satisfaction.
• Addressing physician compensation perception is crucial for workforce morale and healthcare delivery.