Abstract
【Objective】 To purpose of this nationwide survey was to validate workplace characteristics among 340 transplant surgeons undertaking deceased donor organ transplantation in Japan.
【Methods】 A nationwide survey was conducted among transplant surgeons who are involved deceased donor organ transplantation in Japan. An online questionnaire was sent to transplantation physicians who belong to the Japan Society for Transplantation, and the answers regarding the information about the workplace environment were collected.
【Results】 The survey revealed that transplant physicians are likely to be overworked with less financial compensation in the deceased donor organ transplantation procurement. Preparations for deceased donor procurement occupied an average of 21 hours and necessitate 5 transplant physicians to carry out the procedure. Many transplant physicians are not allowed to accept paid leave in lieu of additional wages for overtime work (or graveyard shift for procurement operation) agreed upon in the relevant hospitals.
【Conclusion】 Although career satisfaction might be high in transplant physicians, a significantly unhealthy and uncompensated work environment had been reported with high turnover and burnout rates. Initiative should be taken to facilitate collaborative efforts between surgeons and transplant centers in order to increase the local procurement of organs, the regional allocation system, the courier system for necessary equipment for procurement, and most importantly adequate compensation for this honorable profession.
