Abstract
Aim. Understanding the mechanisms linking working conditions with the well-being of healthcare workers is essential for improving the quality and safety of medical services. This study aimed to examine the link between workload and job satisfaction among healthcare workers.
Material and methods. The study included 240 currently employed healthcare workers in Poland. A diagnostic survey approach was used, utilizing standardized tools: the Quantitative Workload Inventory (QWI) and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire – Short Form (MSQ-SF).
Results. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between workload and overall job satisfaction (ρ=−0.198; p=0.001). Medical rescuers reported the highest workload (M=20.29), which was significantly greater than that of other groups (p<0.001). Nurses had the lowest overall satisfaction (M=69.72), which was significantly lower than that of doctors (M=76.58; p<0.001) and paramedics (M=73.77; p<0.05). It has also been shown that longer work experience is linked to lower external satisfaction and overall satisfaction.
Conclusions. Increased workload significantly reduces job satisfaction among medical staff. There are significant differences between professions - paramedics are the most overworked, while nurses show the lowest level of satisfaction. Job satisfaction decreases as work experience increases, showing that the system’s working conditions have a constant negative effect on employees’ well-being.