Occupational Stress Levels among Radiologists and Radiographers in Hungary during the COVID-19 Era

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened stress levels, potentially affecting the occupational wellbeing of radiographers and radiologists. Our study aimed to assess occupational stress levels within the radiology department and identify contributing factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between September and November 2022, with participants comprising radiographers and radiologists affiliated with the Hungarian Society of Radiographers and the Hungarian Society of Radiologists. The online survey collected socio-demographic and COVID-19 data, and the participants completed an effort–reward imbalance questionnaire. The analysis of 406 responses revealed significantly higher effort–reward imbalance (ERI) levels among the radiologists compared to the radiographers (p < 0.05). The healthcare professionals with over 30 years of experience exhibited significantly lower ERI levels than those with 1–9 years, 10–19 years, or 20–29 years of experience (p < 0.05). Additionally, the individuals aged 31–40 demonstrated higher ERI levels compared to their counterparts aged 19–30, 41–50, and over 51 (p < 0.05). The respondents cohabiting with a spouse/partner reported significantly higher stress levels than their single colleagues (p < 0.05), while the dog owners exhibited significantly lower ERI levels (p < 0.05). Elevated occupational stress highlights specific groups requiring targeted interventions to reduce stress and mitigate burnout among radiologists and radiographers.