A Cross-Sectional Survey on Generation Z Physicians: Professional Value, Educational Expectations, and Work Environment Preferences

Abstract Generation Z (Gen Z) physicians, born between the mid-1990s and the mid-2010s, bring unique professional values and expectations to clinical practice shaped by technological and socioeconomic changes. This study explored these aspects of Gen Z physicians in Japan. A cross-sectional survey focusing on professional values, job-related training, supervisor attitudes, and work environments was conducted among first-year to third-year physicians in Japan. The participants were categorized into Gen Z (≤ 29 years) and non-Gen Z groups. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests identified significant differences between the groups. Of the 429 respondents, 391 were Gen Z members. They value job satisfaction, working for the benefit of others, embracing new challenges, and desire immediate feedback. Notable differences between Gen Z and non-Gen Z members include viewing work primarily as a means of personal life and preferences for teamwork, immediate feedback, proactive communication from supervisors, and chat-based workplace communication. Japanese Gen Z physicians prioritize internal motivation, economic stability, immediate feedback, digital technological integration, and collaborative work environments. These findings necessitate adapted approaches to medical education and workplace settings that align with the distinct outlook of this generation.