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Self-Reported Flourishing Among U.S. Surgeons: A National Physician Survey
Kevin Ig-Izevbekhai1, Felix R De Bie1, Kathryn Radulovacki1
1Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
|June 4, 2026
Summary
Surgeons report high flourishing, especially in meaning and purpose, but low social connection. Focusing on social connectivity and purpose can help surgeons thrive.
Area of Science:
- Medical professional well-being
- Surgical profession studies
- Psychological flourishing metrics
Background:
- Surgeon burnout is well-documented, yet data on thriving using robust flourishing measures is limited.
- Understanding surgeon flourishing is crucial for addressing well-being beyond burnout.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure flourishing in a national sample of practicing US surgeons.
- To identify personal and professional factors associated with surgeon flourishing.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey of 959 US surgeons using the Harvard Flourish Index (FI) and Secure Flourish Index (SFI).
- Multivariable regression analysis to determine correlates of flourishing.
Main Results:
- Mean flourishing score was 7.98/10, with highest scores in financial stability and meaning/purpose.
- Lowest flourishing domain reported was close social relationships.
- Fewer work hours, having children, and viewing surgery as a calling correlated with higher flourishing.
Conclusions:
- Practicing surgeons report high flourishing, exceeding historical cohorts.
- High meaning/purpose scores contrast with lower social connectivity, suggesting areas for intervention.
- A flourishing framework can enhance discussions on surgical well-being, focusing on purpose and social connection.
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