Challenges in Effective Faculty and Provider Recognition to Enhance Engagement

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Management
• Workplace Psychology

Background:

• Burnout is prevalent among academic faculty, residents, and advanced practice providers.
• Burnout is linked to reduced patient care time and attrition from academic medicine.
• Recognition is a potential strategy to improve workplace well-being and reduce staff turnover.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the needs and preferences for recognition among faculty and providers in a large academic department.
• To identify specific opportunities for improving recognition systems.
• To understand the impact of current recognition practices on job satisfaction and retention.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods survey combining quantitative and qualitative elements was administered.
• The survey targeted faculty and providers within a large academic medical department.
• Data analysis included statistical assessment of survey responses and thematic analysis of qualitative feedback.

Main Results:

• A significant portion of participants (26.9%) reported unrecognized work duties.
• Nearly 20% considered leaving due to feeling unappreciated.
• Preferences for recognition varied, with females favoring tangible goods and differing preferences noted between providers and associate professors regarding who should recommend recognition.

Conclusions:

• A notable deficit in recognition exists within the academic department.
• There is a lack of consensus on effective recognition methods and timing.
• Future recognition initiatives must prioritize fairness, inclusion, and avoid assumptions about individual preferences to effectively combat burnout and improve retention.