Faculty Perspectives on Appreciation Strategies in a Neurology Department

Burnout is a pervasive occupational hazard for neurologists-undermining their well-being, jeopardizing patient safety and satisfaction, limiting access to care, and inflating health care costs. Well-designed appreciation and recognition practices may help mitigate some of its key drivers. This pilot study evaluates faculty perspectives on appreciation strategies in an academic neurology department. We used the Moffitt Provider Appreciation Assessment (MPAA), which assesses the types of appreciation methods respondents value, regardless of whether those practices are currently implemented in their workplace.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among full-time clinical faculty in the Department of Neurology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. The survey included demographics, the MPAA, the single-item Mini-Z burnout inventory to assess self-reported burnout levels, and an intent-to-leave question. MPAA responses were analyzed for frequencies, and the association between burnout and intent to leave was examined.

Of the 202 faculty members, 77 (38%) participated. The most highly valued appreciation practices were inclusion in decision making (77%), efforts to reduce daily frustrations (75%), and positive feedback from patients and families (71%). Gifts, team celebrations with food, and public affirmations were among the least valued practices. Burnout symptoms were reported by 45% of respondents, and 30% indicated an intent to leave within 2 years. Higher burnout levels were associated with increased intent to leave (p < 0.00001). Because the scores for self-reported burnout and intent to leave reflect current work conditions while MPAA scores capture enduring personal values, MPAA rankings cannot be compared directly with burnout or turnover metrics.

Neurology clinical faculty prioritized appreciation methods that directly address clinical work, underscoring the value of implementing tailored recognition practices that may reduce burnout. The methodology used in this pilot study can be adapted for broader application in other settings. After identifying faculty preferences, health care organizations can implement meaningful, transparent, and inclusive appreciation strategies that have the potential to strengthen physician relationships, promote well-being, and support a sustainable workforce.