P067: Assessment of burnout among breast surgeons in the United Kingdom
Published Date: 01st June 2020
Publication Authors: Chagla LS
Background
Burnout among physicians has gained significant attention recently because of its rising prevalence, and detrimental impact on quality of care and professional satisfaction. Little is known about burnout among breast surgeons in the United Kingdom (UK). We sought to identify factors that influence overall burnout and professional fulfilment in UK surgeons.
Method(s)
A 30-question burnout survey was sent to members of the Association of Breast Surgery (ABS). Answers were anonymous. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess overall burnout and professional fulfilment among breast surgeons in the UK.
Result(s)
320 UK breast surgeons completed the survey and were included in the final analysis. Burnout was reported by 157 (52.2%) respondents. High professional fulfilment was reported by 79 (25.2%) respondents. On multivariate analysis, working more than 80 hours per week was associated with burnout when compared to working less than 40 hours per week (OR 12.983, 95%CI 2.50 - 67.49, p-Value = 0.0075). Additionally, working in a private hospital for all or part of the working week was associated with high professional fulfilment when compared to working solely in the NHS (OR 3.74, 95%CI 1.20 - 11.62).
Conclusion(s)
The majority of surveyed breast surgeons in the UK report symptoms of burnout, whereas approximately only 1 in 5 reported high professional fulfilment. Increased work hours were associated with burnout, while having a private hospital practice was associated with increased professional fulfilment. Identifying factors related to burnout is essential in order to help develop strategies to minimise and improve physician well-being.
Pardo, J; Chagla, L et al. (2020). P067: Assessment of burnout among breast surgeons in the United Kingdom. European Journal of Surgical Oncology. 46 (6), E28-29.