[Job satisfaction and future prospects among Austrian rheumatologists].

BACKGROUND

over the last century the medical profession has changed considerably. This study analyses both job satisfaction and future prospects among Austrian rheumatologists.

METHODS

a questionnaire was sent to all members of the Austrian Society of Rheumatologists (ÖGR). The main topics were job satisfaction, career choice, rheumatological strategies for the future and central issues relating to their profession.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

of the respondents, 43% would"definitely" and 36%"likely" choose medical studies again. A total of 29% stated that they would definitely (55% probably) choose their current profession as rheumatologist either in a hospital or a practice. Austrian rheumatologists are generally satisfied with their profession. Although 78% are optimistic about their professional prospects, more than half expect a worsening of the economic situation in general. Austrian rheumatologists suffer from the additional workload caused by administration and bureaucracy. In all, 83% of rheumatologists questioned are satisfied with the work of the ÖGR. Suggestions for improvement included increasing advanced training and keeping guidelines and homepages up to date.