D.B.A.  Baker College (Michigan), 2013.
Specialization: Business

An exploratory study of medical oncologists' job satisfaction
94 pages. UMI #: 3594893
Citation, Abstract & Full text in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database

Job satisfaction among oncologists has declined in recent years, but there is a gap in the literature as to why this is occurring. The purpose of this case study was to investigate job satisfaction of medical oncologists in three states in the upper Midwest. The study was based on Herzberg's motivation-hygiene theory and Maslow's hierarchy of needs. An overarching research question asked which factors affect oncologists' job satisfaction. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews with 15 randomly selected private-practice oncologists from Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. Interview questions addressed how participants view new legislation, the effect of Medicare reimbursement cuts on job satisfaction and patient care, and how respondents' perceptions are affected by the state where they practice. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for emergent themes. Results showed that job satisfaction is affected by burnout, relationships with colleagues and patients, and work-life balance. Participants expressed concern about reductions in Medicare reimbursement as a result of the Affordable Health Care Act, and about reduced incentives for research based on the Physician Payment Sunshine Act. Results of this study could improve job satisfaction among oncologists by informing efforts to amend recent legislation and by helping oncologists avoid burnout. Oncology patients would benefit from this study because improved job satisfaction among oncologists will result in improved patient care.

• Bernice Folz, Ph.D., Chair
• Mary Dereshiwsky, Ph.D.
• John Vinton, Ph.D.