Analysing drivers and outcomes of job and professional satisfaction at health centres in Portugal

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyse antecedents, associations and outcomes of job and professional satisfaction of doctors and nurses in Portuguese health centres. Design/methodology/approach The authors have used structural equation modelling to examine the causal relationships between multiple variables placed in a path model reflecting the theoretical foundation. Findings The percentage of those satisfied or very satisfied with their jobs was just above 50 per cent. Doctors’ satisfaction stems from personal achievement and the formal component of work environment, leading them to strongly recommend their work in the health centre to dear ones but not to put aside other job options. Nurses’ level of job satisfaction seems to be affected by co-workers and interpersonal relationships beside personal achievement and has more strong and multifaceted impact on their feelings and behaviour that goes from recommending their job position to considering to quit job and even regretting the option made in terms of career. Originality/value This study represents the first attempt to conceptualise and test a simultaneous model comprising antecedents and outcomes of both job satisfaction and professional satisfaction in primary care, investigating also differences between genders and professions. Results shed light on determinants of satisfaction among specialised staff in Portuguese primary care and how they affect commitment to the organisation and the way career choice is regarded.