Provider Burnout

Excerpt

Burnout is a job-related stress syndrome resulting in emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. It was first described by Maslach et al. in the Maslach Burnout Inventory Manuel (1996). In February 2003, the European Forum of Medical Associations and the World Health Organization issued statements about serious concerns regarding burnout levels in healthcare providers and advised that all national medical associations pay attention to this issue. In the last decade, it has been more apparent that provider burnout is turning into an epidemic. National studies suggest that over fifty percent of providers experience symptoms related to burnout, which is significantly higher than the general population. A similar trend regarding rates of exhaustion has been seen in both medical students as well as in graduate medical education (i.e., residents/fellows. Healthcare has experienced major challenges over the last thirty years with an aging population, managed care, and the integration of technology.

The reality of these challenges can be seen in long working hours, high and sometimes unsustainable productivity goals, and greater overall difficulty of balancing work and life; all of which are some of the major precursors of provider burnout. If not addressed burnout promptly leads to depression, addiction, and suicidal ideation. Also, it has a negative impact on providers, patients, and organizational outcomes. Studies suggest that burnout is not only an individual provider issue but a sign of corporate malaise, and like this solutions should also target these regulatory issues. In this article, we will concentrate on provider burnout in particular.