Job Satisfaction, Well-Being, and Burnout among Ophthalmology Educators

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Ophthalmology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Burnout is a significant concern among healthcare professionals.
• Ophthalmology educators, including program directors (PDs) and associate PDs (APDs), are crucial for training future specialists.
• Understanding burnout prevalence and well-being factors in this group is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess burnout prevalence in ophthalmology educators.
• To identify factors influencing well-being and job satisfaction.
• To explore interest in wellness initiatives among ophthalmology PDs and APDs.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was distributed to Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) members.
• The survey addressed Maslach Burnout Inventory domains, intent to leave, and wellness activity interest.
• Participants included ophthalmology PDs and APDs; analysis used a top-box approach.

Main Results:

• A low prevalence of burnout symptoms was observed among ophthalmology educators.
• High percentages reported not considering residents as impersonal (95.2%), becoming callous (90.3%), or emotionally hardened (80.6%).
• Approximately 65% had no intent to leave their position; high job satisfaction was reported.

Conclusions:

• Ophthalmology educators exhibit favorable burnout rates compared to other specialties.
• Higher personal accomplishment suggests a decreased likelihood of burnout onset.
• Ophthalmology PDs and APDs show high job satisfaction, with interest in mentoring and webinars for wellness.