Factors affecting physician professional satisfaction and their implications for patient care, health systems, and health policy

The following research report, created by RAND Health, aims to characterize factors that influence physician professional satisfaction. Between January and August 2013, data from 30 physician practices in six states (Colorado, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin) was gathered. Each practice completed a structural questionnaire assessing its organizational structure, electronic health record use and capabilities, and participation in innovative payment models. Furthermore, each practice conducted semi-structured interviews. Findings revealed that important determinants of physician professional satisfaction included: level of quality of care provided, electronic health records, autonomy and work control, practice leadership, work quantity and pace, regulatory and professional liability concerns, and health reform.