[Health related quality of life in medical doctors: study of a sample of Uruguayan professionals].

Medical profession has been recognized as a health risk population due to inherent work characteristics as well as relatively recent changes in medical practice. However few studies refer to Physicians' Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL). Present study analyzes HRQL of 145 medical doctors participating in Continuous Medical Education courses in Uruguay. Participants completed WHOQOL Bref, Maslach Burnout Inventory and a list of work-related interfering factors. Results show lower HRQL, especially in psychological and physical domains in those suffering burnout syndrome and also those who exhibit only emotional exhaustion or depersonalization. Factors explaining low psychological well being are related to work disruptive effects on personal life, because of irritability, lack of enjoyment and excessive work hours. The importance of protecting factors is also confirmed. Doctors considering their work as giving them valuable things, keeping motivation for work and empathy towards patients, exhibit better HRQL. Social, educational, organizational and individual factors that might influence on the situation are analyzed. The need of longitudinal studies to confirm the results is emphasized. Possible measures in these different levels are proposed. The ultimate goal is to favour a reflexive and gratifying practice, setting the basis of a new contract between doctors and society.