A Comparison of Attitudes About Rural Practice Among Family Physicians in Japan and Oregon

Background and Objective: In Japan and the U.S., the number of physicians per population is lower in rural areas than in urban areas, and the shortage of physicians in rural areas is an urgent issue in both countries. Physicians are more likely to remain in rural areas if they are more satisfied with their work and life, but no studies have been conducted simultaneously in more than one country on this topic. Methods: This cross-sectional survey study simultaneously assessed the attitudes about rural practice and life in rural settings among a convenience sample of physicians living and working in rural Japan and Oregon (US). The 40-item survey assessed demographic and rural background, clinical practice information, and satisfaction with rural work and life. Results: In Japan, 209 out of 592 respondents (35.3%) responded to the survey, and in Oregon, 66 out of 630 respondents (10.5%) responded to the survey. Oregon physicians were more satisfied than Japanese physicians on enjoying a broader scope of practice in rural areas (4.56 vs. 3.78; p < 0.001), being able to access the latest medical information (4.35 vs. 2.75; p < 0.001), having someone to talk to about work and life issues (3.75 vs. 3.04; p < 0.001), feeling part of the rural community where they work (4.42 vs. 3.76; p < 0.001), and perceiving their children are receiving a satisfactory education (3.66 vs. 3.04; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Physicians in Japan and Oregon were satisfied with working and living in rural areas. Japanese rural physicians' backgrounds and satisfaction levels differed significantly from those in Oregon.