Abstract
Background and Objectives: Job satisfaction is essential for organizational success, yet there is limited research on the job satisfaction of dental professionals in Sulaymaniyah City’s public service centers. This study aims to assess workforce distribution and satisfaction levels, while exploring how sociodemographic factors influence these outcomes. Sulaymaniyah region, with its growing population and increasing demand for dental services, lacks studies on this topic. Understanding job satisfaction in this area is vital for addressing workforce retention, service quality, and employee morale. The findings will offer targeted recommendations to improve local healthcare policies and workplace conditions.
Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at public dental centers and primary healthcare offices in Sulaymaniyah City. Dentists, dental assistants, and dental technicians employed in the public sector participated after providing informed consent. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire.
Results: The study explored workforce distribution and job satisfaction levels among dental professionals. Dental technicians and assistants tended to work primarily in specialized centers, while dentists were distributed between public and private sectors. Most participants were aged 31–40, female, and held bachelor degrees. Job satisfaction varied by role, with dental assistants reporting the highest satisfaction and dentists the lowest. Factors affecting satisfaction included workload, responsibilities, and years of experience, with newly employed professionals showing higher satisfaction than those with longer service. Younger professionals and female participants displayed slightly better satisfaction, though neither factor was statistically significant. Dental assistants rated training opportunities the highest, highlighting the need for equal professional development opportunities.
Conclusion: Addressing workforce imbalances and improving job satisfaction among dental professionals requires strategies such as manageable workloads, better training opportunities, and hiring younger professionals. These measures can promote a stable and satisfied workforce.