Physician burnout: prevention strategies

Burnout syndrome is a response to occupational stress that consists of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal fulfillment. It may affect health care professionals, requiring due attention and the development of preventive mechanisms. The objective of this study was to identify possible ways to prevent the onset of burnout among physicians. A literature review was conducted in PubMed and SciELO databases. The search resulted in 16 articles on the subject, of which 11 conducted individual-focused interventions, four focused on the work environment, and one focused on both aspects. In conclusion, reducing burnout levels may benefit both physicians and patients, and conducting approaches focused on both the individual and the work environment is essential. However, further research on physician burnout prevention is needed.