Interventions to Prevent and Treat Burnout in Obstetrics/Gynaecology: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Objective: Obstetricians and gynaecologists are among the highest risk specialties for burnout. There is growing evidence that physician burnout can be both prevented and reduced. We sought to characterize the evidence base for interventions related to the prevention and treatment of burnout in obstetrics and gynaecology DATA SOURCES: We conducted a scoping review following PRISMA guidelines of 5 databases: (Medline-OVID, EMBASE, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, and PsycInfo) from inception to March 17, 2020. Citations of relevant articles were hand-searched to maximize sensitivity.

Study selection: All interventional study designs were included. The target study population was obstetrics and gynaecology residents, learners, or staff. Published conference posters, papers, and abstracts were eligible for inclusion.

Data extraction and synthesis: All extraction and descriptive analysis was completed by two independent reviewers. Outcomes were summarized descriptively. Appraisal was completed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Risk of Bias Assessment tool for Non-randomized Studies.

Results: Of the 1540 original database citations, 20 studies met our inclusion criteria. A total of 589 obstetrics/gynaecology participants were included. While there was an overall a lack of research in the field, there were several promising interventions that target residents. There were a combination of preventative interventions (e.g. yoga, nutritional programs, or narrative medicine initiatives) as well as treatments (e.g. counselling appointments or debrief sessions). The vast majority of these interventions focused on individual-specific interventions rather than structural changes. In addition, the majority of interventions appeared to be "proof of concept" and feasability-related studies, with many studies published as conference abstracts rather than peer-reviewed journal publications.

Conclusions: Institutions should continue to implement interventions that address burnout in obstetrics and gynaecology. Further research is required on long-term outcomes of interventions as well as structural strategies.

Keywords: burnout; mental health; occupational stress; wellness.