Effect of job satisfaction on knowledge sharing behavior among rural chronic disease managers

Purpose This study aims to explore the effects of dimensions related to job satisfaction on knowledge sharing behaviors among Chinese chronic disease management teams across professions and organizations. Design/methodology/approach This study used a multistage stratified random sampling method to survey 511 rural chronic disease managers across eastern, central and western China. Univariate analysis was used to identify the factors influencing knowledge sharing behavior. Hierarchical linear regression analysis and structural equation modeling were applied to determine the effects of various dimensions of job satisfaction on different knowledge sharing behaviors. Findings Business consideration demonstrated a significantly positive impact on written contributions, organizational communication and personal interaction behaviors (β = 0.126, p < 0.05; β = 0.130, p < 0.01; β = 0.175, p < 0.001, respectively). The nature of work also demonstrated a significantly positive impact on written contributions, organizational communication and personal interaction behaviors (β = 0.111, p < 0.05; β = 0.178, p < 0.001; β = 0.160, p < 0.001, respectively). Colleague relationship demonstrated a significant positive impact on personal interaction behavior (β = 0.144, p < 0.01). Written contribution behavior was influenced by gender; organizational communication behavior was influenced by factors such as region, gender, work years, employment method and practicing qualification; and personal interaction behavior was influenced by practicing qualification. Originality/value This study investigates the relationship between job satisfaction and knowledge sharing behavior among rural chronic disease managers in China, incorporating perspectives from cross-organizational and cross-professional teams. This study helps break away from the current focus on single organizations, offering valuable insights for networked organizations to improve health-care service quality and performance.