A pilot study exploring interventions for physician distress in pediatric subspecialists

Area of Science:

• Medical Education and Professional Development
• Physician Well-being and Burnout
• Healthcare Management and Policy

Background:

• Institution-sponsored wellness programs are recognized for their potential benefits.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the availability, utilization, and desired features of these programs among pediatric subspecialists.
• Assessing physician needs is critical for effective wellness strategy development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the availability and utilization of institution-sponsored wellness programs in pediatric subspecialties.
• To identify specific wellness activities that pediatric subspecialists wish were available.
• To understand physician perceptions and needs related to institutional wellness initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A national electronic survey was distributed to pediatric subspecialists.
• Data were analyzed using bivariate statistics (chi-squared and t-tests) and multivariable logistic regression.
• Qualitative content analysis was applied to free-text responses regarding desired wellness programs.

Main Results:

• Approximately 60% of pediatric subspecialists participated in available wellness programs.
• Most utilized programs included debriefs, Schwartz Center Rounds, team building, and pet therapy.
• Physicians expressed a desire for enhanced social/emotional support, leadership, organizational support, and improved work environments.

Conclusions:

• Physician wellness strategies must be individualized, moving beyond a 'one-size-fits-all' approach.
• Normalizing self-care and actively listening to physicians' articulated needs are essential.
• Implementing needs assessments ensures a 'bottom-up' approach, incorporating physician feedback into wellness program design.