Abstract
Objective
Concerns have been raised about doctors shifting jobs from non-profit to for-profit
healthcare, leaving non-profit organisations understaffed. This study explores the extent and
underlying reasons for such job transitions. A 2024 national survey of Norwegian doctors
(n=1,973; 78% response) examined job shifts from non-profit to for-profit healthcare over the
past two years.
Results
Fifty-one doctors (2.6%) had shifted from non-profit to for-profit healthcare in the
past two years; 19 (37%) were still working in for-profit healthcare. A third of the doctors
working in non-profit healthcare had considered switching to for-profit work (450/1517). This
group was younger, less satisfied with their jobs, and reported higher sickness absence.
Working hours were most often cited as a very important reason for shifting jobs.