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Doctors and society: a Northern Thailand study
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|January 1, 1982
Summary
A 1976 survey of 132 physicians in Northern Thailand revealed high doctor dissatisfaction due to overwork and low pay. Most doctors were government employees, yet many held private practices, highlighting a complex medical landscape.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Western medicine is Thailand's official standard, primarily urban.
- Indigenous medicine practitioners are widespread and tolerated despite illegality.
- Thai medical training aligns with Western standards, leading to emigration of graduates due to limited domestic demand for private care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the medical profession in Northern Thailand.
- To analyze factors influencing professionalism and job satisfaction among physicians.
- To understand the employment and practice patterns of doctors in the region.
Main Methods:
- A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted in early 1976.
- 132 physicians across three Northern Thai provinces participated.
- Data analysis explored relationships between independent variables, professionalism, and satisfaction.
Main Results:
- Most physicians were government employees or hospital staff, with many engaging in private after-hours practice.
- Two distinct professional types emerged: 'cosmopolitan' and 'local' doctors.
- High dissatisfaction (43%) was reported, citing overwork, low compensation, and patient non-cooperation; key satisfiers included service, autonomy, and prestige.
Conclusions:
- The Northern Thai medical profession faces challenges including communication barriers and significant job dissatisfaction.
- The dual practice model (public employment with private practice) is common.
- Understanding physician motivations and work conditions is crucial for improving healthcare delivery in the region.