The value of work for doctors in Pakistan: Towards a framework for ensuring decent work

The critical frontline work of doctors in Pakistan was overlooked and undervalued by the government, hospitals, and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Media reports and studies highlight that public sector doctors in Pakistan facing new societal, professional, and organisational challenges, compunding to the inherent demands of workpotentially leading to its undervaluation. This study, explores how the work of doctors is (under)valued in Pakistan’s public sector hospitals, and how this aligns to the underpinnings of decent work. 27 semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted with doctors in Pakistan’s public sector hospitals. We found that serving others, recognition and appreciation, and professional learning and development were valuable aspects, whileflaws in the healthcare system, issues from patients and public, poor work environment, a lack of essential health facilities, and physical and mental health challenges associated with work were considered factors which undervalue the work for doctors. Drawing on the intersect between the concept of decent work and psychology of working theory, we establish a value framework for decent work that aligns with its psychological and sociological dimensions. Based on the findings we offer policy and practice implications ensuring the provision of decent work to public sector doctors in Pakistan.