Does Burnout Exist in Academic Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the United States?

Information regarding burnout in academic oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) in the United States (US) does not exist. The purpose of this project was to answer the following question: “Does burnout exist in academic OMSs in the United States?” A 15-question anonymous survey was created based on Expanded Physician Well-Being Index (WBI, MedEd Web Solutions). The survey was sent electronically to fellows of the American Academy of Craniomaxillofacial Surgeons (AACMS) consisting of demographics, professional obligations, wellness indicators (burnout, emotional hardening, depression, anxiety, fatigue, overwhelmed), and overall quality-of-life statements. Responses were quantified according to a scaled scoring system specific for WBI. Multivariable logistic regression was then used to create a predictive model of being “at risk” of burnout. Surveys were sent to 180 active AACMS fellows; 110 completed the questionnaire (61.1%). One hundred eight active fellows met inclusion criteria. Majority were males between the ages of 41 and 50. About a quarter spent more than 20 years in an academic setting. Activities concentrated on patient care, teaching, and/or administrative duties. More than half of respondents felt emotionally hardened, anxious/irritable, and/or overwhelmed. About a third had adequate time for personal and family life. Most felt that their work was meaningful. Using WBI, the average score was 2.21, meaning that as a whole oral-maxillofacial surgery academicians are not considered at risk for burnout. Risk factors for burnout were age >40 years old, female gender, patient care more than 55 hours per week, call more than 10 times per month, and majority of time spent on teaching responsibilities. According to WBI, OMSs as a group are not at risk for burnout. Certain traits (age, gender, more than 55 weekly hours and/or more than 10 call shifts per month, high percentage of time teaching responsibilities) are at higher risk for burnout.