Organizational conditions, work–life balance and work ability of healthcare workers

Purpose – This study examines work ability, defined as the balance between personal resources and job demands. It is considered a key indicator of sustainable employability, a critical issue in the healthcare context. Specifically, it analyzes how job resources and demandsshape employees’ work ability and evaluatesthe role of work–life balance as a potential mediator of these relationships. Design/methodology/approach – We estimate structural equation modeling (SEM) using STATA 18 on a sample of 443 healthcare workers at the University Hospital of Modena (Italy). Findings – Our findings show that supportive supervisors, work autonomy and discretion positively influence work ability. Work–life balance emerges as a crucial mediator of the relationships between work autonomy, work intensification and employee work ability. Practical implications – These results underscore the crucial role of organizational practicesin bolstering work ability and well-being. Key priorities include enhancing leadership quality through training and mentoring initiatives. Equally important isfostering work–life balance by enhancing employee autonomy and involvement in key decisions related to their work. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the literature by providing an in-depth analysis of job demands and resources affecting work ability in the healthcare sector. Furthermore, it is the first study to evaluate the mediating role of work–life balance in this specific context.