Satisfaction at work among radiologists.

PURPOSE

This study sought to evaluate professional satisfaction among Italian radiologists and identify what personal characteristics of radiologists and features of their work and work setting affect job satisfaction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Satisfaction was assessed by using Warr et al.'s 17-item Job Satisfaction Scale (JSS) in 206 radiologists, 108 radiotherapists and 34 specialists in infectious diseases used as controls.

RESULTS

Forty-nine per cent of diagnostic radiologists reported being satisfied with their jobs. The frequency is significantly lower than that found among radiotherapists (64%) and controls (62%). Middle-aged radiologists on lower rungs of the career ladder were more dissatisfied than were their older colleagues in top positions. Female radiologists were less satisfied than their male counterparts with regard to recognition for good work, amount of job variety and distribution of workloads. Stepwise logistic regression analysis showed that job satisfaction was especially affected by physical working conditions, freedom to choose one's own work method, relationship with one's immediate boss, attention paid to one's suggestions and the amount of job variety.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study identified the sources of professional satisfaction and dissatisfaction among radiologists. A future survey of a stratified random sample of Italian radiologists appears to be feasible.