Effects of National Evaluation of Long-Term Care Hospitals on Hospital Workers' Work Environment, Job Satisfaction, and Quality of Services

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the work environment and job satisfaction of hospital workers and to assess their effects on quality of services under the national long-term care hospital evaluation (hereafter, national evaluation), which has implemented since 2008. Methods: A self-administered survey was conducted on 178 hospital workers' at 18 hospitals in Chungcheong province, Korea. Survey questionnaires include questions about respondent' awareness of the national evaluation and any change in work environment and job satisfaction under the national evaluation. We used a path analysis to assess the effects of work environment and job satisfaction on quality of services.Results: Results showed that the effects of the national evaluation on work environment and job satisfaction were positive, which, in turn, leads to better quality of services.Improvements in the work environment under the national evaluation have resulted in increased job satisfaction. High scores for job satisfaction showed a significant association with the quality of services provided in long-term care hospitals. In addition, the national evaluation itself had a positive effect on improving quality of services. Conclusions: In order to facilitate quality improvement activities under the national evaluation, it is suggested that workers be provided with education and training. Continuous efforts to improve work environment and to enhance job satisfaction would lead to provision of better quality of services in long-term care hospitals.