2026 Volume 62 Issue 1 Pages 31-42
Purpose: The work styles of pediatric surgeons in Japan are expected to considerably change because of work style reforms. In this study, we aimed to examine their current working conditions.
Methods: A questionnaire survey was administered to members of the Japan Society of Pediatric Surgeons Under-45 Working Group to assess their working conditions before implementing the work style reforms.
Results: Overall, 31 responses were obtained (response rate: 49%). Among the respondents, 55% were in their 30s, and 45% were in their 40s. In terms of overtime, 57% of respondents reported working more than 45 hours, and 21% reported working more than 90 hours per month. Additionally, 36% of respondents experienced health problems owing to overwork. Dissatisfaction with compensation relative to working hours was reported by 64% of respondents. Regarding institution type, 89% of respondents at university hospitals expressed dissatisfaction; however, no such dissatisfaction was reported by respondents working at children’s hospitals. Regarding shift duties, 20% of respondents reported working six or more overnight or holiday shifts per month, and 32% were responsible for first-call duties 10 or more times per month. When combining first- and second-call duties, 58% were responsible for on-call shifts 10 or more times per month.
Conclusion: The study findings revealed that Japanese pediatric surgeons are working many overtime hours and on-call duties. As work style reforms progress, improvements in the working environment of pediatric surgeons are anticipated.
