Current Diversity Issues in Cardiovascular Workplaces in the Chugoku District　― Results From 2 Questionnaire Surveys ―

Background: Various issues, such as gender diversity and overwork, need to be considered in cardiovascular workplaces. Here, we report the results of 2 questionnaire surveys conducted among members of the Chugoku branch of the Japanese Circulation Society. Methods and Results: The first questionnaire was posted to all 194 female members in 2018. Of the 73 respondents, 61.6% reported feeling that it would be difficult to continue in cardiovascular care. The second questionnaire was completed by participants of the Chugoku Regional Meeting in 2019. Of the 133 respondents, 42.4% reported difficulties continuing in cardiovascular care. Respondents reporting difficulties had a significantly lower mean age, a higher frequency of day and night shifts, and a higher rate of working >80 h/week than respondents who did not report such difficulties. In logistic regression analysis, working >80 h/week was the only independent factor associated with difficulties continuing in cardiovascular care (odds ratio 4.16; 95% confidence interval 1.46–11.9; P=0.008). Although 47.4% of respondents worked >960 h overtime per year (considered a risk factor for death from overwork), 59.6% of these respondents reported being satisfied with their current situation. Conclusions: In the Chugoku region, the work-life balance of medical personnel engaged in cardiovascular care has not been sufficiently secured. In order to promote diverse human resources, we need to recognize the current situation and continue to take countermeasures.