Satisfaction of young ENT surgeons with their work. A Finnish national study

Abstract

The objective was to investigate work satisfaction among recently graduated otorhinolaryngologist – head and neck surgeons – (ENT surgeons). An electronic questionnaire was sent to all ENT surgeons graduated in Finland during a ten-year period. Answers about work satisfaction were analyzed in detail with regards to age, gender, university of specialist training, experience, place of work and further education.Altogether 125/129 (96.9%) responded. The majority (87.8%) of the respondents enjoyed their current main occupation. The older age group (≥40 vs <40 years) was more satisfied (93.7% vs. 81.7%; p=0.042). Consultation opportunities and workplace atmosphere were reported as good by 85.6% and 90.4% of the respondents, respectively. Training opportunities were considered good by 82.4%, albeit by only 60% of the private physicians (p=0.047). Private sector practitioners were also less satisfied with the versatility of their work (p<0.001). Work at a university hospital was considered more strenuous (p<0.001). Over half (54.8%) felt insecure about continuation of their employment status. Most of the recently graduated Finnish ENT surgeons are satisfied with their current occupation, consultation opportunities and workplace atmosphere. However, work at university hospitals in particular was considered often strenuous and over half of the respondents felt insecure about the continuity of their employment.

Keywords

• career prospects
• insecurity
• work satisfaction
• otorhinolaryngology
• specialist training
• strain