Pediatrician Burnout Over Time: 2021-2025

Utilize a longitudinal study to examine over time whether (1) burnout has decreased since it peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021; (2) patterns are similar across pediatrician characteristics; and (3) changes in work and personal characteristics are linked to decreasing burnout.

We analyzed data from the American Academy of Pediatrics Pediatrician Life and Career Experience Study to examine indicators of burnout over a 5-year period, 2012-2025 (n = 2353): (1) current burnout; (2) emotionally exhausted; (3) disconnected or cynical; and (4) not accomplishing anything worthwhile at work. Study participation ranged from 74% in 2025 to 79% in 2021. Mixed-effects logistic regression for longitudinal analysis examined burnout over time.

Significant decreases in the burnout indicators over time were found for all participants combined and nearly all subgroups examined. Across the 4 burnout indicators, 3 factors were associated with reductions in burnout including change in jobs, increased flexibility in work schedule, and decreased busyness in work setting. For example, change in jobs had associations with reduced (1) current burnout (adjusted odds ratio = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.20-0.35), (2) emotional exhaustion (0.48, 0.35-0.65), (3) disconnected or cynical (0.58, 0.41-0.83), and (4) not accomplishing anything worthwhile at work (0.43, 0.28-0.66). Increased support from colleagues, increased sleep, and increased time with patients were also associated with reduced current burnout and emotional exhaustion.

Among a national sample of pediatricians surveyed annually from 2021 to 2025, fewer reported current burnout, emotional exhaustion, disconnection or cynicism, and no worthwhile accomplishments at work. Specific pediatrician work factors were associated with reduced burnout.