[Health-related quality of life in dermatologists compared to other physicians]

Abstract

Background: According to recent studies, there may be differences in quality of life for physicians depending on gender and field of medicine. Presently, there are hardly any data with respect to health-related quality of life in dermatologists.

Methods: Using the SF-36 Health Survey, 112 dermatologists and 113 physicians in other fields of medicine were studied in a cross-sectional study.

Results: Dermatologists' mental health level averaged lower than their physical health level (chi2=28.49; p<.001). The mental and physical health level were higher in female dermatologists than in their male colleagues (e.g., GH: chi2=6.15; p<.05 and MH: chi2=6.83; p<.05). These findings are the opposite of results in other medical specialists. The differences between mental and physical health dimensions on the one hand, and between women and men on the other hand, were found in all age groups.

Conclusions: In comparison to other medical specialists, dermatologists differ only slightly in their health-related quality of life. Therefore, it may be advisable to implement preventive measures concerning their comparatively low mental health status.