Workload perception and job satisfaction among Lebanese practicing dietitians: A cross-sectional study by employment location

OBJECTIVE: Workload perception and job satisfaction are fundamental components of human resource management. While these factors have been studied across healthcare professionals worldwide, research on this topic, specifically among dietitians, is lacking in Lebanon. This study aims (1) to assess the perceived workload and job satisfaction levels among Lebanese practicing dietitians and (2) to explore its associations with sociodemographic characteristics and employment location (Lebanon only vs Lebanon and abroad). METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 138 Lebanese dietitians, using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic status, workload perception (NASA-TLX) and job satisfaction (Spector's job satisfaction survey). Scores were expressed as percentages, categorized into six groups, and stratified by employment location. Descriptive statistics, independent t-test and multiple linear regression models were used. RESULTS: The total job satisfaction score (JSS) was significantly associated with middle-aged groups ranging from 31 to 40 years old (p = 0.003), with 16-20 years of experience (p = 0.001), having a higher education level (p = 0.01) and greater income (p < 0.0001). Middle age was significantly associated with being satisfied with payment (p = 0.0001) and the nature of the work (p < 0.0001). When stratified by employment location, dietitians practicing in Lebanon and abroad reported significantly higher satisfaction in several facets compared with those practicing in Lebanon only (p < 0.05), while communication and fringe benefits did not differ significantly. The total median workload score was 62.8% indicating a slightly high perception of workload among the target participants. CONCLUSION: Lebanese dietitians reported slight overall job satisfaction, higher among those aged 31-40 years, with 16-20 years of experience, higher education, greater income. Dietitians practicing in Lebanon and abroad reported higher satisfaction across several facets than those practicing in Lebanon only. Perceived workload was slightly high, with no significant difference in total workload by employment location, although differences emerged across specific workload dimensions. This highlights the need for strategies addressing workload management, early-career mentorship, and stress management to support dietitians' career satisfaction.