The pro-doc-tivity pause: Health economic benefits of collegial connection

Burnout is a common problem in medicine, affecting up to 50% of clinicians and more than one-third of allergist-immunologists. Moments of mindful connection may help combat burnout by improving connection and purpose. These factors may be key drivers to foster spiritual health and flourishing.

To characterize wellness improvements and cost-effectiveness of a microsabbatical retreat.

Clinicians attending a continuing medical education wellness retreat were surveyed on the impact of the microsabbatical on their sense of connection, purpose, and service. Microsimulation was performed assuming approximately 30% of the American Board of Allergy and Immunology diplomates experienced burnout (n = 2000, with half of the simulated diplomates receiving a wellness intervention).

Clinicians reported improvements in connection with colleagues (P = .001), friends, and family (P = .039). In addition, the participants reported improved sense of purpose (P < .001) and service (P < .001). The health economic evaluation suggested that annual cost savings associated with wellness could reach $3,040,374 across the simulated population while improving quality of life.

A thoughtfully planned and mindfully attended microsabbatical retreat may improve short-term measures of flourishing and spiritual health and key wellness domains of connection, purpose, and service.