Demographic and Job-Related Predictors of Work-RelatedQuality of Life Among Healthcare Workers: Evidence from Public Sector Hospitals in Greece

Background: Working in the public healthcare sector, especially in hospitals, is widely recognized as a highly demanding job. Measuring work related quality of life is crucial, as it allows the assessment of working conditions and the level of well-being among healthcare professionals. The aim of this research was to assess the quality of working life among employees in the Greek public hospitals, with the ultimate goal of identifying demographic and job-related factors affecting quality of working life and setting. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 23 public hospitals of the 1st Health Region of Attica, which includes the capital (Athens) and 39 other municipalities. This region comprises some of the country’s largest and busiest hospitals, employing approximately 23,940 workers. The tool used was the Work-Related Quality of Life Scale (WRQoL). Data collection was carried out during the period 2023–2024. Results: A total of 1,022 employees participated in the study, with a mean age of 47 years and a mean working experience of 20.4 years. Based on the overall WRQoL score, 44,8% of employees reported a low level of quality of working life. Working conditions were rated at a low level by 59.3% of participants. Perception of general well-being increased with age and was reported at higher levels by those who held a managerial position and a permanent job. Doctors, especially men, reported a lower perception of well-being. Job satisfaction was low, at a rate of 45.8%, particularly among younger employees (age group < 40 years) and employees in pediatric hospitals. High levels of work-related stress were reported by 27.8% of participants. Job-related predictors and demographic characteristics of high statistical significance were identified across all dimensions examined. Conclusion: This study highlights significant challenges affecting the work-related quality of life of employees in Greek public hospitals and provides evidence-based insights that can guide organizational and policy-level interventions. The findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted strategies to improve working conditions, reduce occupational stress, and enhance the overall well-being and job satisfaction of healthcare workers.