Preventing Physician Burnout: What Works?

Burnout is a complicated syndrome of psychological distress that is estimated to affect about half of all U.S. physicians. It has become so common that an entire academic literature has sprung up to formalize methods of evaluation and treatment. Researchers surveyed this literature for studies that might clarify whether current treatment options actually work. They reviewed more than 2500 studies that were published through early 2016. Only 52 studies (15 randomized, controlled trials and 37 cohort studies) in which a total of about 3600 residents and practicing physicians were enrolled met methodologic criteria. Interventions ranged from job modifications (e.g., scheduling changes) to individual training sessions in stress management and c…