Predictors and Outcomes of Burnout Among Primary Care Providers in the United States: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Primary care providers (PCPs) in the United States work in challenging environments and may be at risk for burnout. This article identifies the predictors and outcomes of burnout among PCPs in the United States. A comprehensive literature search of eight databases was conducted to identify studies investigating predictors or outcomes of PCP burnout. The Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal checklists for cross-sectional and cohort studies were used for quality appraisal. Overall, 21 studies met inclusion criteria, had sufficient quality, reported personal and/or organizational predictors of burnout, and described burnout outcomes at the patient, provider, or organizational level. Prevalence of PCP burnout ranged from 13.5% to 60%. The primary care practice environment was the most common predictor of PCP burnout. In conclusion, developing interventions to improve the practice environment may help reduce PCP burnout. Future studies using robust study designs and standardized instruments to consistently measure burnout are needed.

Keywords: burnout; clinicians; outcomes; predictors; primary care.