Gender and work–life balance: Results of a national survey of pediatric hospitalists

In medicine, difficulty integrating work and home can lead to decreased job satisfaction, diminished well-being, and increased turnover. Understanding the experience of pediatric hospitalists can provide insights into building a stable, long-term workforce. We aim to examine gender differences in work–life balance and parental leave for physicians practicing Pediatric Hospital Medicine.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey study of 1096 pediatric hospitalists. Responses were collected via an online survey platform and summarized using descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions and measures of central tendency. A multivariable logistic regression was used to examine associated variables and work–life balance satisfaction. We analyzed free responses on parental leave to provide nuance to quantitative survey data.

Results

Five hundred and sixty-five respondents (52% response rate) completed the survey with 71% women. 343 (62%) prioritize work–life balance in career decision-making. Women report taking on more household responsibilities than their partners (41.4% vs. 8.4%; p < .001) including a larger percentage of caregiving and domestic tasks. Female gender and performing <50% caregiving were associated with decreased work–life balance satisfaction; performing <50% domestic tasks increased satisfaction. Median parental leaves were 4 weeks, with men taking significantly shorter leaves (3.5 vs. 6 weeks; p < .001) and more “paid back” time off.

Conclusion

Work–life balance is an important factor in career decisions for men and women. Women perceive carrying a larger load at home. Qualitative results suggest that parental leave may be inadequate in length and salary support for men and women. This study adds insights into work–life integration in PHM.