Drivers and sequelae of burnout in U.S. dermatology trainees

Abstract

Background Burnout is a health care epidemic. Although burnout has been shown to affect dermatologists in multispecialty studies, there are no such studies in dermatology trainees. Objective We conducted a survey-based study of burnout in U.S. dermatology trainees to identify its drivers and sequelae. Methods All residents enrolled in a U.S. dermatology training program were eligible. The 45-question survey included the Maslach Burnout Inventory, a validated quality of life index, and 31 questions based on known drivers of burnout and new research questions. No identifying data were collected. Results A total of 180 residents responded, for a response rate of 14.4%. Notably, an analysis of the cohort showed that our sample was not statistically different from the national complement of trainees based both on proportion of female respondents and mean age ( p = .9449 and .2376, respectively). Of the respondents, 59% were female. The average age was 30.6 years. Sixty-nine percent of trainees (124 of 180) met the criteria for burnout. On univariate analysis, age, sex, training year, and relationship status were not associated with burnout. Good work–life balance ( p = .032), autonomy in the workplace ( p = .0027), intradisciplinary respect ( p = .022), and increased work hours ( p = .0110) were protective. On multivariate analysis, autonomy in the workplace (odds ratio: 3.580; confidence interval, 1.32–9.71; p = .012) and good work–life balance (odds ratio: 0.262; confidence interval, 0.095–0.722; p = .0097) remained significant. Conclusion Improving control over working environment, as evidenced by the impact of work–life balance and autonomy, may lessen burnout in trainees. Further studies analyzing regional and program-specific variations will help improve trainee experience.

Perceptions and impact of patient reviews: a survey of academic dermatologists

“…Research specifically addressing the multifaceted burnout syndrome in dermatology is accumulating. [25][26][27][28][29][30][31] While prior studies have focused on the association between physician burnout and lower patient satisfaction scores, our study suggests that PRs may function as one of numerous players that contribute to burnout and require further investigation.…”

“…Approximately 80% of dermatologists in this study reported symptoms suggestive of burnout from their work, and the majority agreed to feel hardened emotionally. Research specifically addressing the multi‐faceted burnout syndrome in dermatology is accumulating 25–31 . While prior studies have focused on the association between physician burnout and lower patient satisfaction scores, our study suggests that PRs may function as one of numerous players that contribute to burnout and require further investigation.…”

Burnout Among Dermatology Residents and Fellows: A Survey Study

“…The factors contributing to burnout are pervasive across medical specialties, encompassing burdensome bureaucratic tasks, extended working hours, insufficient acknowledgment from peers and administrators, escalating reliance on computers, and inadequate compensation 5 . In dermatology, the factors leading to burnout may differ depending on practice settings, with issues such as excessive documentation, prolonged use of electronic medical records, and a heavy patient volume being prominent concerns for dermatology residents 5,6 .…”

Practice Efficiency in Dermatology: Enhancing Quality of Care and Physician Well-Being

“…Attention to dermatologist satisfaction is important and urgent. Between 2011 and 2014, dermatology had the highest increase in burnout prevalence of all specialties [ 5 ], and 33% of dermatologists reported burnout in the 2022 Medscape National Physician Burnout and Depression survey [ 6 ]. A focus on efficiency can help improve physician satisfaction as it increases the quality, safety, and effectiveness of care while at the same time promoting positive patient interactions and work-life balance [ 4 ].…”