Exploring Burnout and Depression Among Oncology Physicians: Impacts and Preventive Measures

Abstract

Objective: Our study aims to evaluate the depression and burnout states (according to their sociodemographic characteristic) of Turkish Oncology Physicians (both medical and radiation oncologists) who follow up and treat oncology patients. Materials and methods: Actively working radiation oncology practitioners (n:267)who completed the questionnaire voluntarily were included to the study. A 13-item personal information form was prepared to determine the participants' sociodemographic characteristics. Data were transferred to the IBM SPSS Statistics 23 program using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDE). Results: A statistically significant relationship (with both positive and high levels) was found between the beck depression scale score and the emotional exhaustion subscale while a statistically significant association (with bothpositive and middle levels) was found between the Beck depression scale score and the depersonalization subscale, and a statistically significant relationship (with both positive and low levels) was found between the beck depression scale score and the personal success subscale (p<0,05). Conclusion: In our study, depression status and burnout presence were detected in the doctors working in the field of oncology. It is important to take precautions before entering depression and before burnout begins. As a result, the quality of life for physicians will improve, leading to enhanced diagnoses and treatments for cancer patients, as well as fostering positive relationships with both patients and their families