Measures, Methods, and Models of Doctor Satisfaction: Future Research Challenges

Abstract

This paper outlines the way in which various concepts measuring doctor reactions to their jobs and careers (e.g., satisfaction, burnout, etc.) have been developed. The variety of measures, methods, and models reflect differing disciplinary and theoretical approaches and research traditions. In order to identify productive ways to advance the field, this paper presents a proposal for how multi-disciplinary, cross-national comparative research might be conducted to resolve some of the issues linking medical care organization, physicians' experiences, and patient outcomes. In seeking buy-in from stakeholders, researchers need to be cognizant that various ideologies and agendas shape the nature of the concerns that these interest groups (e.g., professional associations, clinical managers, payers, patient advocates, etc.) have about physician satisfaction, its precursors, and its consequences.

Keywords: Physician satisfaction, burnout, measurement, methodology, medical autonomy