Work, Life, and Meaning in Surgical Practice.

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Surgical Practice
• Occupational Psychology

Background:

• Many US surgeons report burnout and a loss of purpose.
• Investigating surgeon attitudes towards work-life integration and patient boundaries is crucial.
• Hypothesis: Patient involvement enhances surgeon fulfillment and flourishing.

Purpose of the Study:

• Examine US surgeons' approaches to work-life integration.
• Understand attitudes towards professional boundaries with patients.
• Identify sources of meaning and satisfaction in surgeons' lives.

Main Methods:

• Conducted qualitative interviews with eleven practicing US surgeons.
• Utilized six standardized interview questions.
• Performed thematic qualitative content analysis on transcribed and deidentified interviews using NVivo.

Main Results:

• 82% of surgeons felt their identity was tied to their profession, impacting fulfillment.
• 73% acknowledged challenges in balancing personal and professional lives, preferring integration.
• Satisfied surgeons deliberately prioritized personal and professional relationships.

Conclusions:

• Surgeons' views on professional boundaries and relationships vary.
• Many surgeons prioritize work-life integration over strict balance.
• High satisfaction is linked to intentional priority management and valuing relationships.