Burnout during ophthalmology residency training: A national survey in Saudi Arabia

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to identify burnout prevalence among ophthalmology residents and the predisposing factors associated with higher levels of burnout. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on all ophthalmology residents in Saudi Arabia using Maslach Burnout Inventory in January 2018. Associations between Emotional Exhaustion scores and other continuous variables were evaluated using Spearman’s correlation coefficients. Logistic regression model was constructed, and results were reported as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 117 residents responded to the survey with a 70% response rate. The response rate was above 65% for each training programs by region. 41% of ophthalmology residents scored a positive burnout result on the common subscales (Emotional Exhaustion and/or Depersonalization). Further sub-analysis of data showed positive Spearman’s correlation with number of call days per month and EE subscale (r 0.195). Multivariate logistic regression of the sample yielded significant results with satisfaction with work/life balance and choosing medicine again as a graduate level major p ≤ 0.05. The regression model also showed the Southern program had significantly higher burnout on the common subscales p ≤ 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of burnout among ophthalmology residents was lower when compared to plastic surgery and otolaryngology residents in Saudi Arabia. Work hours and on call days were associated with higher burnout. Actions must be taken to ensure that all training programs implement work hour limitations. Special attention should be given to the Southern region program due to its significantly higher levels of burnout.