Burnout in Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physicians: A Predictive Model

Area of Science:

• Medical Specialties
• Occupational Health
• Physician Well-being

Background:

• Pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) physicians face unique stressors.
• Burnout is a significant concern in healthcare professionals, impacting patient care and physician retention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of burnout in PEM physicians.
• To identify predictors associated with burnout in this population.
• To develop a predictive model for burnout risk stratification.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional electronic survey was distributed to board-certified or eligible PEM physicians in the US and Canada.
• Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, personal accomplishment).
• Multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors of burnout.

Main Results:

• Burnout prevalence was 49.5% among 416 PEM physicians.
• High burnout scores were observed in emotional exhaustion (34.9%) and depersonalization (33.9%).
• Six independent predictors identified: lack of appreciation (patients/supervisors), unfair schedule, promotion dissatisfaction, EMR impact, and nonacademic setting.

Conclusions:

• Burnout is highly prevalent in PEM physicians.
• A predictive model incorporating six key factors can stratify burnout risk.
• This model can inform organizational strategies to mitigate burnout and enhance physician well-being.