Stress indicators among medical personnel in Germany

In a large‐scale survey of medical practitioners and consultant practices throughout Germany, job‐related pressure was found to be significantly higher among the eastern German Federal States (former GDR) compared to the older Federal States (former West Germany). More specifically, those practising in East Germany reported significantly more stress regarding the “work‐leisure interface” (problems associated with clearly demarcating work and private time). In addition, medical staff in the new Federal States displayed slightly lower levels of job satisfaction, and less risk taking and were more cautious in their attitudes than their West German counterparts. The implications of these findings are discussed.