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The workload of general practitioners in the Netherlands: 1987 and 2001.
Berg, M. van den, Kolthof, E., Bakker, D. de, Zee, J. van der. The workload of general practitioners in the Netherlands: 1987 and 2001. In: G.P. Westert; L. Jabaaij; F.G. Schellevis. Morbidity, performance and quality in primary care: Dutch general practice on stage. Oxon: Radcliffe Publishing, 2006. 147-154
Like in many other countries, it has often been stated that the workload of general practitioners (GPs) in the Netherlands has increased in the past few years. However, empirical evidence for this statement is lacking. Additionally, most previous research has focused on only one or a few aspects of workload, e.g. the number of working hours or the consultation frequency. In this study we describe changes in objective and subjective workload using a range of workload measures. Compared to 1987, GPs have to deal with an increasing number of medical problems within a shorter time frame. This is mainly due to a 10% increase in demand for care, combined with a shorter working week on average for GPs, i.e. a decline of nine hours per week. Approximately threequarter of the GPs were satisfied or very satisfied with their work in 2001. In comparison with 14 years ago, this represents a distinct decline. Although workload is partly determined by care demand, it can be influenced by the GP. An increasing workload requires creative solutions and can often be managed by organisational measures, e.g. task delegation. (aut. ref.)
Like in many other countries, it has often been stated that the workload of general practitioners (GPs) in the Netherlands has increased in the past few years. However, empirical evidence for this statement is lacking. Additionally, most previous research has focused on only one or a few aspects of workload, e.g. the number of working hours or the consultation frequency. In this study we describe changes in objective and subjective workload using a range of workload measures. Compared to 1987, GPs have to deal with an increasing number of medical problems within a shorter time frame. This is mainly due to a 10% increase in demand for care, combined with a shorter working week on average for GPs, i.e. a decline of nine hours per week. Approximately threequarter of the GPs were satisfied or very satisfied with their work in 2001. In comparison with 14 years ago, this represents a distinct decline. Although workload is partly determined by care demand, it can be influenced by the GP. An increasing workload requires creative solutions and can often be managed by organisational measures, e.g. task delegation. (aut. ref.)
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