Why do work patterns differ between men and women GPs?

Purpose – The purpose of this study was to explore gender differences in contractual commitments, job satisfaction and spouses' occupation among GP principals in NHS Scotland. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is based on data provided by a self‐completion, postal questionnaire survey. The response rate was 50 per cent. Findings – Males worked more hours than females and were more likely to work out‐of‐hours. Females reported greater job satisfaction but only when they worked fewer hours. Females earned less than males but there were no gender differences in total household income. Both genders planned to retire at 59 years. More males would delay retirement if they could work part‐time. More females than males were in dual‐doctor households. Male respondents in dual‐doctor households were more likely to have modified their working hours or career aspirations than males in other households. Practical implications – The number of hours worked by GPs is in part determined by the occupation/earning power of their spouse. The number of women GPs is increasing and they are likely to continue to choose to work fewer hours than their male counterparts have done in the past. Originality/value – This study has attempted to incorporate spouse's occupation/income as a factor in the career choices of GPs in Scotland.