Prevalence of burnout among physiotherapists: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

BackgroundWork-related burnout is a significant concern amongst healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists. It can negatively impact on both staff well-being and the quality of care delivered to patients. ObjectivesTo estimate the prevalence of burnout among physiotherapists. Data sourcesPubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and PsycINFO, from inception to February 1st, 2022. Study selection or eligibility criteriaStudies reporting burnout prevalence among physiotherapists. Data Extraction and Data SynthesisPrevalence of burnout. Sub-analyses were performed grouping studies based on countries where surveys were conducted, classified as developed or developing countries. The risk of bias was assessed using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results32 studies were included in the systematic review and 31 in the meta-analysis, enrolling a total of 5984 physiotherapists from 17 countries. Pooled prevalence (95% confidence interval) of burnout was 8% (4-15). Prevalence figures for Maslach Burnout Inventory dimensions were: (i) emotional exhaustion, 27% (21-34) (ii) depersonalization, 23% (15-32) (iii) low personal accomplishment, 25% (15-40). Both overall and single components prevalence was higher, although not significantly, in studies from developing than in developed countries. LimitationsTools used to assess burnout and cut-off scores chosen to identify the burnout prevalence differed across studies. Conclusion and implications of key findingsPrevalence of burnout reported by physiotherapists appears high worldwide, in particular in developing countries, and compares with that reported by nurses and physicians. Substantial heterogeneity in the prevalence of burnout, in its definition and assessment methods across studies, and limited quality of most studies precludes drawing definitive conclusions.