The gender pay gap： Review and update

This paper explores the research behind the wage gap between men and women, the reasons for and extent of the gap, and strategies for dealing with gender pay discrepancies. Historically, gender discrimination was the traditional and easy explanation for pay discrepancies, but more aggressive enforcement of equal pay legislations has virtually diminished the validity of rationalizing the existence of pay differences solely on gender. Statistical data surrounding the pay gap point to other factors as more causal instruments that sustain and perpetuate the gap in spite of more than forty years of enforcement of equal pay legislations. The choices we make seem to predict and explain current wage gaps better than blatant gender discrimination does, and policies directed at improving those choices appear to be better strategic tools in closing the wage gap.

Identifying the Determinants for Attractiveness of Integrated Forms of Care from the Perspective of Health Care Professionals

Fostering integration between caregivers in the ambulatory sector involves transforming the institutional, organizational and technical flamework but also redesigning the work performed by health care professionals. Empirical research on the implementation of integrated care highlights professional engagement and commitment as a key success factor during the change process. Although a mismatch of motives during the integration process is often reported only a few studies have explored motivational aspects of health care integration. The aim of this study is to explore motivational factors for health care professionals in order to identify the determinants of attractiveness of integrated forms of care. An online-questionnaire was developed to identify the most important motivational factors for health care professionals and to reflect their perceptions on the attractiveness of interdisciplinary forms of care. The sample includes practicing physicians （general practitioners and specialists）, practicing nurses and non-physician professions （physiotherapists, midwives, speech therapists, occupational therapists）. Findings suggest that health care professionals are highly motivated by intrinsic motivators. Physicians turned out to be the most reluctant group towards integrated care models. Participating in integrated forms of care would challenge working independently which represents a strong motivator. The responses of nurses suggest that they are the most favorable group. Integrated care forms would be attractive offering more possibilities for social relationships, expanding responsibilities and challenging work. Results support the importance of health workforce engagement and participation in planning health care integration.