Physician burnout in ophthalmology: a New Zealand survey

Burnout is a chronic syndrome that compromises physician wellbeing and patient care. This study aimed to quantify burnout among New Zealand ophthalmologists and identify key demographic and practice-related factors associated with increased risk, as well as to assess lifetime burnout experiences, time off taken and barriers to seeking help.

A cross-sectional study of 171 New Zealand ophthalmologists used a modified Mini Z 2.0 Burnout Survey to assess workplace satisfaction, stress and burnout, while additional questions gathered demographic and practice characteristics, as well as retrospective data on burnout frequency, time off taken, help sought and perceived barriers.

Out of 161 delivered surveys, 84 responses were received (52% response rate). Overall burnout was 20%, with a significantly higher rate in the public sector (p<0.05). Burnt-out respondents reported notably lower job satisfaction, team effectiveness and workload control. No significant associations were found with other demographic or practice factors. Sixty-three percent had experienced burnout at least once, and 40% reported multiple episodes, yet only 15.5% took time off. Among those who sought help (51%), family members were the most common source of support, while 43% did not seek help, primarily due to time constraints.

This study shows that burnout affects one in five New Zealand ophthalmologists. Findings underscore the importance of reducing stigma and cultivating supportive environments that encourage help-seeking without fear of repercussions. Reducing administrative tasks and expanding mental health resources, especially in the public sector, may mitigate burnout and strengthen workforce recruitment and retention.