Impact of malpractice fear on physician job satisfaction: evidence from a cross-sectional study

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the fear of malpractice and job satisfaction among physicians and to identify the key factors influencing this association.Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 281 physicians working at a university hospital between May 1, 2024, and July 31, 2024. Data were collected using a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Malpractice Fear Scale (MFS), and the Job Satisfaction Scale (JSS).Results: The mean fear of malpractice score was 22.67±5.45 (range:6-30). A statistically significant negative correlation was identified between fear of malpractice and job satisfaction (JSS Mean=65.57±11.05) (r=−0.225, p<0.001). Previous involvement in a malpractice lawsuit (p=0.006), having a patient complaint filed (p<0.001), and a lack of malpractice-related training (p=0.018) were significant predictors of higher fear. Working on-call duties was associated with increased fear of malpractice (p=0.011) and decreased job satisfaction (p=0.001). Conversely, greater professional experience and a higher academic title were associated with lower fear of malpractice (p=0.033 and p=0.003, respectively) and higher job satisfaction (p=0.003 and p=0.001, respectively).Conclusion: Malpractice fear is widespread among physicians and exerts a measurable adverse effect on job satisfaction. Beyond legal and financial regulations, multidimensional strategies—including medico legal education, institutional support systems, and improvements in working conditions—are essential to address this issue. Such measures may improve physician well-being, reduce defensive medical practices, and ultimately enhance healthcare quality and patient safety.