Oncologists' mindfulness, health, well-being, and patient care.

Abstract

e16527 Background: Occupational demands on oncologists continue. Burnout is a serious concern, especially considering the looming shortage of oncologists. There is scant research regarding oncologists, their personal habits and patient care, and strategies that enhance well-being. Mindfulness, the ability to be present in the moment, is increasingly being encouraged among healthcare workers for personal benefits and possible positive effects for patients. This study examined (a) the health, well-being, and patient care practices of oncologists, and (b) the relationship between oncologists' mindfulness and health indicators (general health and sleep problems) with three outcomes (satisfaction with life [SWL], job satisfaction, and suboptimal patient care). Methods: Survey data were collected from ASCO oncologists (n = 114, response rate of 29%). Results: Participants were male (76%), Caucasian (78%), and married (84%), and featured a mean age of 52 years and an average work week of 58 hours. Half (51%) endorsed sleeping 6 or fewer hours/night, whereas 35% reported inadequate sleep and 57% believed lack of sleep interfered with daily functioning. Participants reported good health, high levels of mindfulness, and satisfaction with their lives and jobs. They reported occasional suboptimal patient care practices and attitudes. About 20% endorsed some burnout, but only 12% were considering changing jobs in the next 5 years. Hierarchical multiple regressions indicated that general health statistically predicted greater SWL, greater job satisfaction, and less suboptimal patient care, whereas mindfulness predicted greater SWL and less suboptimal patient care. Sleep problems statistically predicted less SWL, whereas mindfulness predicted less suboptimal patient care. Conclusions: Although participants endorsed long work hours and inadequate sleep, they reported being generally healthy, satisfied, and very mindful. Mindfulness statistically predicted greater satisfaction with life and better patient care. These findings suggest that being healthier and more mindful has benefits for oncologists and their patients. The results may inform the development of interventions to enhance oncologists' well-being and patient care. No significant financial relationships to disclose.