A new study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma examines professional demands and job satisfaction in orthopedic trauma. The researchers surveyed members of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association and received 263 responses, a 25.5 percent response rate.
Most of the surgeons who responded were fellowship-trained, at 82.9 percent. Around 34.4 percent had less than five years in practice and 87.1 respondents were married. Nearly 86 percent of the patients had not been divorced.
The researchers found that belonging to a larger practice increased career satisfaction; working more hours per week decreased satisfaction. The career satisfaction improved when physicians took more call.
Overall, career satisfaction among orthopedic trauma surgeons was high.
"Our results indicate that young surgeons may improve their job satisfaction and potentially prolong their career by limiting the number of hours worked, taking a consistent number of calls and joining a larger group," concluded the study authors.