Clinician burnout: results of an ABN survey of British neurologists

Abstract

Rising demand and increasing workload in the face of constrained resources are factors known to con- tribute to clinician burnout. Emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and career dissatisfaction are some of the consequences. In the USA, neurologists are amongst the clinicians with the highest rates of burnout, but is this also a problem for British neurologists?Through the last quarter of 2019, the entire working membership of the ABN (neurologists and trainees) was surveyed using the well-validated Maslach Burnout Inventory. Other demographic and working practice data were also obtained. Of 1252 members, a total of 563 responses were obtained (45%).Over half the membership felt that neurologist burnout was an issue that the ABN should be involved with. Most respondents felt their work was meaningful and would choose neurology again as a specialty. Although job satisfaction overall was good, the majority felt that their schedule left insufficient family time. There were particular concerns regarding autonomy, the amount of administrative work and the lack of administrative support. A significant proportion of neurologists indicated that they had symptoms contributing to a sense of burnout once a week or more.Full results of the Maslach Burnout Inventory will be presented.ckipps@nhs.net