Burnout and resiliency in Mohs surgeons: A survey study

BACKGROUND: Physician burnout is a response to chronic work stress characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced sense of personal accomplishment. Resiliency is the ability to respond to chronic stress in a healthy and adaptive manner. No prior studies have specifically examined the prevalence of burnout and resilience in Mohs surgeons. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the current well-being of Mohs surgeons and specific resilient behaviors that can protect against burnout. METHODS: A cross-sectional electronic survey was sent to members of the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery. The survey combined the validated Maslach Burnout Inventory and The Resilience Profile ©. RESULTS: Of the 1450 surgeons registered with the American College of Mohs Surgery listserv, 137 (9.4%) participated in the survey. Of those who participated, 46% of surgeons had at least 1 symptom of burnout based on a high emotional exhaustion and/or high depersonalization score. Female surgeons (56%) were found to have higher levels of burnout compared with male surgeons (40%). Individual resilient behaviors protective of burnout include the ability to pivot and exhibition of self-control. CONCLUSION: Compared with all physicians and general dermatologists, Mohs surgeons have a lower rate of burnout. Similar to other surgical specialties, women report higher rates of burnout. Individual resilience factors that may be protective of burnout include ability to pivot and self-control.