Maintaining the balance: wellbeing strategies for abdominal radiologists

Burnout rates are high amongst radiologists due to intense cognitive load, time pressure of reporting ever-increasing imaging studies with high diagnostic accuracy and procedural demands. Abdominal radiologists must review large and complex imaging datasets, oncological imaging, reporting incidental findings with recommendations, and frequent multidisciplinary collaborations. Increased work volume and complexity require significant time sitting at a computer workstation with few breaks. Over time, these may have negative impact on one's physical wellbeing and professional satisfaction. While not all factors that contribute to diminished wellness can be easily changed, one can address individual and environmental factors that foster sustained wellbeing and professional satisfaction. This review article outlines several personal and departmental strategies to support the wellbeing of abdominal radiologists including organization support of wellbeing and professional development, workflow optimization strategies, leveraging innovative solutions, ergonomic improvements and lifestyle modifications.