Prevalence and risk factors for burnout among rheumatologists: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of burnout among rheumatologists. Medline and EMBASE were queried from inception until June 2026 for studies on burnout prevalence and/or risk factors in rheumatologists. Pooled prevalence was estimated with random effects meta-analysis, and risk factors for burnout were qualitatively assessed. A total of 12 studies were included, of which 7 prevalence studies (n=1342) were meta-analyzed that assessed burnout with the validated Maslach Burnout Inventory. The pooled prevalence of burnout was 51% (95%CI:39%-63%), emotional exhaustion 26% (95%CI: 18%-34%), depersonalization 20% (95%CI: 13%-28%), and low sense of personal accomplishment 31% (95%CI: 14%-51%). Findings were characterized by significant heterogeneity. Publication bias and subgroup analyses could not be performed. Individual risk factors for burnout included younger age, comorbidities, depression, lack of exercise, shorter years of practice/experience, and lower income in Latin America and the Middle East/North Africa. Work factors associated with burnout included longer work hours, practice types other than group practice, receiving phone calls from patients, being dissatisfied with the specialty, work, and rheumatology practice. More than half of rheumatologists have reported at least one dimension of burnout (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment). These findings emphasize the need to address burnout and its risk factors in rheumatologists. Institutions should prioritize strategies aimed at reducing workplace stressors and promoting rheumatologist well-being.