Effects of gender on work-life balance satisfaction among trauma surgeons: A survey study

Abstract

BackgroundPhysician burnout rates are rising. Because dissatisfaction with work-life balance (WLB) is associated with burnout, improving this balance is a key solution. This cross-sectional survey study aims to evaluate factors associated with WLB in trauma surgeons, stratified by gender. MethodsThis is a secondary analysis, studying gender, of a AAST survey evaluating predictors of WLB in trauma surgeons. Survey topics include demographics, clinical practice, family, lifestyle, and emotional support. Subgroups were analyzed independently; primary outcome was WLB satisfaction. Results292 AAST members completed the survey. Responses were stratified by gender (29% females, 71% males). Independent predictors of WLB satisfaction are:Females: more awake hours at home, having a job well-suited for them, better about meeting deadlines.Males: comfortable declining new tasks, fair compensation, healthy diet, workplace emotional support. ConclusionFactors associated with WLB satisfaction in trauma surgeons are different based on gender. This information may help trauma surgeons mitigate burnout.