Burnout Among Neurology Residents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: a National Cross-sectional Study

Background: Neurology residents are particularly vulnerable to burnout because of the novel logistical and clinical challenges brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite its implications, knowledge on burnout and its predictors among neurology residents is lacking. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of burnout among neurology residents during the pandemic, to compare burnout subscale scores and sociodemographic and work characteristics, and to explore residents' perceptions on how to address burnout.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among all 120 residents from the nine institutions in the Philippines offering neurology residency programs from March to August 2020. We obtained sociodemographic and work characteristics using questionnaire. We measured burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. We performed an inductive thematic analysis to analyze perceptions on how to reduce burnout.

Results: The response rate was 71.67% (86/120). The mean age was 30.1 ± 3.1 years. Using predefined subscale critical boundaries, the prevalence of burnout was 94% (95% CI 89, 99). The lack of compensation and number of on-duty days influenced emotional exhaustion scores. The number of on-duty days influenced depersonalization scores. Thematic analysis revealed five themes: increasing manpower; self-care; reducing clerical tasks; improving work environment; and adequate compensation.

Conclusions: The prevalence of burnout among neurology residents during the COVID-19 pandemic was alarmingly high. Reforms in hiring policies, work-hour management, manpower organization, work environment, and logistics may be considered.