Burnout among urologists and urology trainees in Denmark

Limited information exists on burnout among European urologists and urology trainees. This study aimed to explore prevalence of burnout and identify related workplace characteristics among practicing urologists and urology trainees in Denmark.

In April 2025, we conducted an anonymous nation-wide online survey of urologists and urology trainees working in a public healthcare department of Urology in Denmark. Burnout and psychosocial work environment factors were evaluated using validated assessment tools.

Of the 297 participants invited, 73% (n = 216) completed the survey. Respondents had a mean age of 45.8 years (standard deviation [SD] ± 10.8), 52% (n = 113) were women, and 70% (n = 152) were specialists. Personal burnout was the most prevalent domain, affecting 80.1% (n = 173) of respondents, including 47.7% (n = 103) with mild, 29.6% (n = 64) with moderate, and 2.8% (n = 6) with severe burnout. Personal burnout scores varied significantly by position (p = 0.035) and speciality tenure (p = 0.008). Psychosocial work environment factors differed across groups and departments. Strongest associations with burnout were observed for 'possibilities for performing work tasks', 'emotional demands', and 'unnecessary work tasks', with a notable link between work-related burnout and 'influence at work', alongside factors related to job demands and interpersonal relations. Female respondents reported higher personal (p = 0.003) and work-related (p = 0.011) burnout scores.

Thirty-two percent of urologists and urology trainees in Denmark experience moderate to severe burnout, linked to psychosocial work conditions. These findings highlight the need to engage in dialogue around work-life expectations, workplace-focused prevention strategies to support career longevity, and ensure a stable workforce capable of delivering safe, high-quality patient care.