HEALTHCARE WORKERS' SALARIES: COMPARISON BETWEEN COUNTRIES

Summary: Wages and rewards always attract a lot of attention, either because wages represent one of the basic conditions for a decent life, or because rewards are key motivational factors. In this paper we will examine the theory of reward. In addition, we will highlight the peculiarities of reward systems in healthcare. Remuneration systems in healthcare vary considerably around the world. In some cases, rewards consist of fixed and variable payments, others use a commission system, while still others combine both options. There are also systems that focus on non-financial rewards such as promotions, recognition, additional leave, paid training abroad and other forms of non-financial incentives.

The central part of the paper will be a comparison of the gross income of different health professions. The analysis of the data shows that Slovenia allocates a below-average share of GDP to healthcare, which places it in 23rd place among 36 countries. The average salary per inhabitant and taking purchasing power parity into account is also below average, placing it in 24th and 25th place respectively. The salaries of general practitioners and nurses are relatively low, especially in terms of purchasing power parity, where they rank even lower. In contrast, the incomes of emergency physicians are among the highest according to purchasing power parity, which puts Slovenia in 5th place in this category.

The article opens several directions for further research. Undoubtedly, it is necessary to study the components of the reward system in detail and to find out what are the key motives for working in Slovenian healthcare. It would also be useful to investigate how different reward systems affect the satisfaction and performance of healthcare professionals. In addition, it is important to analyze the comparative strengths and weaknesses of the Slovenian system compared to other countries, in order to be able to propose improvements and adjustments for better working conditions in healthcare.

Keywords: healthcare, reward systems, rewards, salaries, GDP, world.