Factors that affect the changes in the satisfaction of Japanese physical therapists with their profession over the years

[Purpose] To analyze changes in the level of satisfaction of new physical therapists with their profession over time and in the factors that affect their satisfaction, focusing on the impact of previous experiences and working conditions. [Participants and Methods] This longitudinal survey study administered a questionnaire to 585 physical therapists who participated in the newcomer orientation at Hiroshima Prefectural Physical Therapy Association from 2017 to 2019 as follows: 210 in 2017, 188 in 2018, and 187 in 2019. The responses to the questions regarding professional satisfaction and the factors that affect it were investigated. The factors identified consisted of the motivation to become a physical therapist, learning in school, clinical internship, working environment, and workplace comfort. A 5-point Likert scale (strongly agree, agree, undecided, disagree, and strongly disagree) was used. [Results] A significant difference was observed in the satisfaction with profession over the 3 year period, and the results of the multiple comparison tests showed a difference between 2018 and 2019. Among the factors identified, positive professional perceptions in clinical internship strongly influenced professional satisfaction over time. [Conclusion] The 1 year longitudinal study revealed a decline in professional satisfaction among the new physical therapists. The characteristic changes in the factors of professional satisfaction were determined from the motivation to become a physical therapist to the clinical internship experience.