Technology-Assisted Supplemental Work Among Rural Medical Providers: Impact on Burnout, Stress, and Job Satisfaction

Burnout among healthcare providers has been identified as a national public health concern. The purpose of this study was to (a) examine technology usage outside the workplace among rural medical providers, (b) examine whether technology usage is associated with perceived stress and burnout, and (c) examine the impact of technology usage and perceived usefulness of technology on job satisfaction. Results indicated that supplemental technology usage was associated with perceived stress and burnout. Years in practice, supplemental technology usage, and perceived usefulness of technology were all correlated with whether providers would recommend their organization to those considering working there. Findings expand upon past research on physician burnout and indicate that perception of the usefulness of technology is correlated with job satisfaction and whether one would recommend that others work at one's organization. Finding ways to increase positive perceptions of technology usage in a technology-driven medical system may increase the likelihood of retaining or recruiting staff.