FOCUS ON SYSTEMS! FINDINGS FROM A RESIDENT WELLNESS PROGRAM EVALUATION

Abstract

Objectives In 2011, the University of Toronto Department of Obstetricsand Gynaecology developed and instituted a structured Resident Wellness Program with initiatives designed to support resident wellbeing. After 7years of anecdotal evidence of success, we wished to more formally evaluate the success of this program in order to obtain resident perspectives and identify opportunities for improvement. Methods An anonymous 44-item questionnaire was developed and distributed to current and former residents. A total of 40 current and 17 past residents responded to the survey. Results 33% of current residents and 20% of former residents reported frequently experiencing burnout. 80% of current and 88% of past residents felt satisfied or very satisfied with the Wellness Program, although some components were valued more than others. Residents reported that the most useful components are wellness appointments, personal communication post-adverse event with a Wellness team member, and referrals to counselling services. The most commonly cited reason for not accessing Wellness Program initiatives included a lack of time and not being able to get away from resident duties. Residents reported that their wellness issues are sufficiently addressed by a combination of the Wellness program and their own personal resources, however systemic issues such as workload, time pressures, and the learning environment continue to impede resident wellness. Conclusions The Wellness Program has been favourably received, however residents are interested in tackling systems issues that impact wellness. Going forward, our resident Wellness Program should advocate on behalf of residents to address systems issues in order to improve resident wellbeing.