Job satisfaction is a key driver of employee productivity, yet when job demands exceed individual capabilities, stress can occur. Identifying the factors that cause dissatisfaction is essential to minimize work-related stress, which negatively affects healthcare service quality. Research exploring stress and job satisfaction among medical laboratory professionals (MLPs) remains limited. This study aimed to examine the relationship between job stress and satisfaction among MLPs in Omani hospitals and to determine the potential correlation between these two factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving MLPs across eight hospitals in various regions of Oman. A job satisfaction survey was developed based on prior qualitative research by the authors involving 101 participants. Job stress was evaluated using a survey adapted from the Nurse Stress Index (NSI).Findings revealed a significant association between job stress and satisfaction. Omani MLPs reported higher stress levels than non-Omani staff. Younger professionals were generally less satisfied and experienced higher stress than older colleagues. Among the hospitals, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital showed the lowest job satisfaction and highest stress levels. Key contributors to job stress included inadequate support for professional growth, strained relationships with supervisors and colleagues, and excessive workload. The study highlights the importance of addressing factors that influence job satisfaction to reduce stress among MLPs. Implementing targeted measures to enhance support, improve workplace relationships, and manage workloads can foster a more positive work environment, thereby decreasing job-related stress among medical laboratory professionals in Oman and potentially in broader contexts.
