Addressing Burnout in Ophthalmology—A Call for Systemic Change
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Burnout or ‘Syndrome of Professional Wear and Tear’’ is an increasingly recognized issue in the field of ophthalmology, affecting both those in training and established practitioners.A study reported that 6.9% of participants experiencing burnout were from ophthalmology, with most being residents (81.4%) working 60–80 hours per week.1 Burnout rates were higher in females, with 46.3% reporting early burnout and 36.6% advanced burnout, compared to 32.8% and 25% in males, respectively. While general surgeons and gynecologists were more prone to advanced burnout, eye surgeons and residents showed a notable vulnerability to burnout.1,2Ophthalmologists experience notable levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and a diminished sense of personal accomplishment, representing key types of burnouts in the field.The relentless demands of a highly specialized and technical field of surgery, coupled with administrative burdens and the pressure to maintain a work-life balance, contribute to early career exits and declining mental well-being among professionals.3 To ensure the longevity and fulfillment of ophthalmologists, a multifaceted approach that addresses burnout at both individual and systemic levels is critical.
Author: Ambreen Gull
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408994004