Quality of Working Life of Thai Traditional Medicine Assistants, in Thai Traditional and Integrated Medicine Hospital under the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Ministry of Public Health
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Abstract
The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine the Quality of Work Life (QOWL) and related factors among Thai traditional medicine assistants in Thai Traditional and Integrated Medicine Hospital. The samples were 63 Thai traditional medicine assistants (TTMA). Data collection was done through interviewing, a questionnaire and focus groups. The data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics and summary of the focus group discussion information. Almost 60% of the subjects were females with an average age of 43. Their average income was 19,000 baht per month and over 46.03% were between 20,001 and 26,000 baht. The findings revealed that the percentage-mean score of overall QOWL was 66.65% regarded as moderate level. Percentage-mean score in the commitment to the organization was highest while the control at work aspect was lowest. It was found that TTMA had health problems, neck muscle pain, shoulder pain, and lower back pain. More than 90% rely on medical care welfare from their gold card scheme. The study’s findings lead to recommendations that administrators should have a policy of setting a break time for Thai traditional medicine assistants about 5–10 minutes between patients so that they can relax and reduce their chances of suffering muscle spasms. Furthermore, Thai traditional medicine assistants should be involved in the organization’s process of decision-making on issues related to them which will improve their quality of working life.
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