The researchers analyzed seven years of independent payroll records as well as surveys assessing work satisfaction. The study rated emotional exhaustion on a seven-point scale and professional satisfaction on a five-point scale. Mayo Clinic Proceedings published the study.
Here are five highlights:
1. The researchers found the burnout level foreshadows whether physicians will decrease their hours over the next two years.
2. For every point increase on the emotional exhaustion scale, physicians had a 40 percent greater likelihood of decreasing their work hours over the next two years.
3. Researchers found a similar outcome for every one point decrease on the professional satisfaction scale.
4. Researchers concluded their findings are critical for primary care physicians, as there is already a physician shortage. They suggest additional studies to see if the burnout is reversible by practice environment changes.
“There is a societal imperative to provide physicians a better option than choosing between reducing clinical work or burning out,” said Tait Shanafelt, MD, Mayo Clinic physician and leader study author.
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