Teamwork and Physician Burnout: The Moderating Role of Perceived Organisational Support

Samuel Atingabili,Isaac Adjei Mensah,Isaac Ahakwa,Wenxin Wang,Evelyn Agba Tackie,Prince Owusu Sarkodie

doi:10.4236/health.2021.134034

Abstract

Burnout is an important issue which has attracted the attention of physicians and health practitioners. Several studies have reported the negative effect of physician burnout and the adverse effect it has on the individual and health institutions. This study therefore examined the moderating effect of perceived organizational support on the relationship between teamwork and physician burnout in the Chinese context. Using a survey data consisting of a sample of physicians from hospitals within the Jiangsu Province of China, we estimated three models in a hierarchical framework and identified that in the presence of respondent’s demographic characteristics as control variables, perceived organizational support, play a very vital role in improving teamwork while reducing burnout among physicians.

Highlights

China is a fast-developing country with a rapidly ageing population, combined with an increasing influx of immigrants, which has created an increased demand for health services
The study results showed that some clinical groups were at higher risk of burnout, at night shifts, demonstrating the importance of encouraging teamwork with these groups of individuals who work during the night shift
The structured-questionnaires were disseminated to physicians who are members of the Chinese Medical Doctors Association (CMDA) and known to have much concept and experience when it comes to how burnout, teamwork and perceived organizational support relate

Summary

Introduction

China is a fast-developing country with a rapidly ageing population, combined with an increasing influx of immigrants, which has created an increased demand for health services. It is well known that shortage of physicians leads to decreased healthcare service. These include higher patient turnover, adoption of advanced new technologies, the need for personalized care, and renewed efficiency focus. The work of a physician is known to be an occupation that needs physical and mental energy. Physicians are known to be more vulnerable to burnout: a risk factor in the decision of physicians to have intentions to leave the job [1] [2]. Burnout in physicians may not vary from those of other occupations. Physicians’ reactions may be unique in certain ways, partially because burnout in physicians can have severe implications for patients

Methods

Results

Conclusion