[Time stress among Norwegian physicians]

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Medical Sociology
• Psychology

Context:

• Workplace stress is a significant issue in demanding professions.
• Physicians face unique workplace pressures affecting well-being.
• Understanding stress factors is crucial for physician retention and patient care.

Purpose:

• To examine perceived stress at work in a nationwide representative sample of Norwegian physicians.
• To identify key predictors of workplace stress among physicians.
• To compare stress levels in physicians to other academic professionals.

Summary:

• A nationwide survey of Norwegian physicians revealed significant workplace stress, with 28% reporting unacceptable workloads and 43% experiencing frequent disturbances.
• Nineteen percent of physicians perceived their work situation as hectic and bothersome, compared to 5% of other academics.
• Perceived autonomy in work planning and organization emerged as the strongest predictor of lower stress levels.
• Physicians in hospital department head roles, those working frequent overtime, and those doing voluntary overtime reported higher stress.

Impact:

• Findings highlight the critical role of physician autonomy in mitigating workplace stress.
• Interventions aimed at increasing physician control over their work may improve job satisfaction and reduce burnout.
• The study provides valuable data for healthcare organizations seeking to optimize working conditions for physicians.