Professional Burnout Survey for Practicing Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgeons: A Cross-sectional Study

Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of burnout among active practicing members of the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS). Methods This was an anonymous electronic survey of AUGS nontrainee physician members. Basic demographic, personal, and professional characteristics were collected. Levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and personal accomplishment, as defined by the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey, were utilized to categorize participants into burnout profiles and to determine 2 alternative burnout definitions. Descriptive statistics and models were used to summarize provider characteristics and to explore differences among the burnout profiles. Results Of the 1039 active members of AUGS, 280 (26.9%) responded to the survey. Burnout profiles were delineated using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey. Forty-three percent fit the Engaged profile, whereas 13% fit the Burnout profile. Significant differences were seen in the distribution of the burnout profiles for physicians who take call (P=0.015), have a current mentor (P=0.016), screen positive for major depression (P < 0.001), experience suicidal ideation (P=0.018), have a feeling of control regarding their schedule (P < 0.001) and those who would become a physician again (P < 0.001). The overall rate of burnout in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery providers was significantly different depending on the definition utilized (P < 0.01) and ranged from as low as 6.5% to as high as 51.9%. Conclusions There were some differences in respondent characteristics seen among the burnout profiles. The chosen definition of burnout significantly affected the purported rate of burnout, complicating comparisons among provider populations.