Effects of Role Conflict, Work Environment, and Meaning of Work on Job Embeddedness among Physician Assistants

Purpose: This study examined the effects of role conflict, work environment, and meaning of work on job embeddedness among physician assistants to provide foundational data for their retention and professional development. Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted with 180 physician assistants from six tertiary hospitals in Seoul and Chungcheong Province. Data were collected from July to November 2022. Role conflict, work environment, meaning of work, and job embeddedness were measured using validated scales. Data were analyzed using SAS Enterprise Guide 7.1 with descriptive statistics, the independent t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis. Results: Job embeddedness correlated positively with meaning of work (r=.28, p<.001) and work environment (r=.22, p=.002) and weakly with role conflict (r=.14, p=.045). Multiple regression identified meaning of work (B=0.32, p<.001), role conflict (B=0.13, p=.005), work environment (B=0.14, p=.018), and work type (B=-3.95, p=.004) as significant predictors (Adj. R²=19.8%). Meaning of work had the greatest impact. Conclusion: Enhancing job embeddedness among physician assistants requires improving the work environment, clarifying professional roles, and strengthening professional recognition and organizational support.