Qualitative study on the job satisfaction of public health physicians

Objective: This study aimed to identify factors that enhance or hinder job satisfaction among public health physicians in Nagoya City, Japan. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 public health physicians employed by local government agencies, representing various ages, sexes, years of experience, and departmental affiliations. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Codes were generated inductively, grouped into categories, and synthesized into overarching themes. Member checking and triangulation among researchers were performed to enhance the study's credibility. Results: Three themes were identified as key promoters of job satisfaction: (1) contributing to public health policy through professional expertise, which allowed participants to apply knowledge gained through medical practice to preventive medicine and evidence-based policymaking; (2) a sense of contribution to the community, fostered by collaborative efforts with local organizations to improve residents' health and quality of life; and (3) work-life balance and career flexibility, enabling alignment between professional responsibilities and personal values. Conversely, two themes emerged as barriers: (1) limited opportunities for professional growth and self-efficacy due to the routine nature of tasks and a lack of specialized training, and (2) difficulty adapting to the organizational culture and decision-making processes of public administration, often accompanied by unclear role definitions. Conclusion: Enhancing the motivation and retention of public health physicians requires creating work environments that support the meaningful application of expertise, foster a strong sense of community impact, and facilitate adaptation to the administrative organizational culture. Additionally, providing structured opportunities for professional development and strengthening career pathways could reinforce physicians' professional identities and long-term engagement in public health practice.