Barometer: Deep dive into workplace autonomy
Why we commissioned this research:
Building on new questions included in the Barometer survey 2023, we commissioned in depth follow-up interviews to better understand doctors’ expectations, experiences and perceptions of different aspects of workplace autonomy. The interviews explored the perceived barriers and enablers to working autonomously, and the relationship between autonomy and other aspects of doctors’ work and patient care.
Evidence from this research has informed The state of medical education and practice in the UK: Workplace experiences 2024 report.
What did the research involve?
The research involved 40 depth interviews with doctors who took part in the 2023 Barometer survey. The interviews were conducted in February 2024.
A broad range of doctors took part in the interviews with a mix of perspectives on current workplace autonomy.
Key findings
- The survey found that six in ten (60%) doctors felt they had enough autonomy in their role. Around half (47%) agreed they were involved in decisions that affect their work, and fewer than four in ten (38%) felt they can influence change in their workplace.
- Doctors tended to define autonomy as the ability to make clinical decisions, although autonomy over career and skill development was also prominent within their definitions.
- A supportive environment was felt to be a key enabler of autonomy. Particularly having approachable and available senior staff, who encourage learning and development, and enable individuals to be more confident in their decision-making.
- Restrictions on autonomy tended to relate to working with unsupportive colleagues, and restrictions created by the wider system.
- Those interviewed felt that having the right level of autonomy, and the resources available to exercise this autonomy resulted in better patient outcomes, improved wellbeing and job satisfaction, and strong working relationships.
