Making a difference and earning a living: Healthcare professionals’ perspectives on working with persons with special healthcare needs

Abstract

This qualitative study explored six (female = 5) healthcare professionals’ motivation to work with persons with special healthcare needs. Thematic analysis revealed three themes; namely making a difference in people’s lives, personal life stories, and extrinsic motivation. The findings suggest that healthcare professionals are strongly motivated by the need to contribute to the wellness of others. However, the importance of extrinsic motivation, such as leave and financial independence, also emerged as essential motivators among healthcare professionals.

Keywords:

• moral intelligence
• motivation
• persons with special healthcare needs
• qualitative research
• self-determination theory