What are the most important factors that have increased or decreased burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic? A recent JAMA study and corresponding Advisory Board article discuss this question, reporting on survey results that clinicians shared regarding factors such as chaos, work control, EHRs, feeling valued, and others.

Key Points

Question  How have clinician burnout rates changed during the COVID-19 pandemic nationally, and what are the key aggravators and mitigators of burnout?

Findings  In this survey study of US clinicians with 20 627 respondents, burnout increased throughout the pandemic, reaching its highest levels (>60%) late in 2021; intent to leave also reached high levels (>40%) late in 2021. Chaotic workplaces and lack of control of workload were associated with higher burnout, while efficient teamwork and feeling valued were associated with lower burnout.

Meaning  Knowledge of key indicators of a healthy workplace, such as work control, feeling valued, and clinician outcomes (eg, burnout, satisfaction, intent to leave) may help health systems and their workers adapt to stressful times.

To learn more, check out the full study in JAMA:
Trends in Clinician Burnout With Associated Mitigating and Aggravating Factors During the COVID-19 Pandemic

For an overview, check out the Advisory Board's Daily Briefing:
What's burning out your clinicians? The answer, charted.