Trends in optometrist burnout in the Veterans Health Administration

To characterize the burnout trends among Veterans Affairs (VA) optometrists.

A repeated cross-sectional analysis using individual-level data from the VA All Employee Survey during 2018-2024 and system-level data. Burnout was assessed using two items from the Maslach Burnout Inventory. One item represented emotional exhaustion and asked, 'I feel burned out from my work' and another item represented depersonalization asked, 'I worry this job is hardening me emotionally.'

We identified 4574 responses from VA optometrists. Mean burnout rates were 36.9% in 2018 and increased to 47% for 2022-2024. Females and supervisors/managers reported higher rates of burnout. Optometrists between 30 and 39 years of age, those working in medical centers in rural areas, and in regions other than the Northeast US were more likely to report burnout.

The prevalence of burnout reported among VA optometrists is increasing. Interventions are required from an organizational level to target and address burnout among VA optometrists, especially females and those practicing in rural areas. Successful improvement in burnout rates among VA Optometrists could result in improved mental health of optometry providers and improved care to veterans.