Current Approaches to Addressing Burnout and Moral Injury: Experiences from Four Community Health Centers

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Management
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Provider burnout intensified post-COVID-19 in Community Health Centers (CHCs).
• Understaffing and recruitment challenges are exacerbated by competition from higher-paying sectors.
• Low funding and rapid growth contribute to staffing shortages and leadership-staff relations strain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate strategies employed by leading CHCs to address burnout drivers.
• To explore organizational, engagement, and operational approaches to provider wellbeing.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory qualitative study utilizing interviews with CHC staff.
• Focus on organizational strategies, staff engagement, and operational changes.

Main Results:

• CHCs emphasized mission, developed supportive onboarding/workforce programs, and implemented operational changes to reduce workloads.
• Staff involvement in decision-making and using wellness surveys with visible action were key.
• Strategies aimed to maximize patient care time and enhance provider wellbeing.

Conclusions:

• Employee voice and involvement in decision-making are critical for mitigating CHC provider burnout.
• Addressing systemic issues is essential, moving beyond individual-focused wellness approaches.
• Participant-identified strategies highlight the importance of organizational support and empowerment.