Formal wellness training of academic radiology leaders improves work-life conflict

Objective To investigate the effect of formal leadership training of academic radiology leaders within an academic center on their own burnout and professional fulfillment. Methods The study cohort was academic radiology leaders within one of the largest academic organizations of academic radiologists within the United States. All academic radiology leaders within the organization were electronically mailed a weblink to a confidential IRB-approved survey in April 2021. The survey included validated questions from the Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index (PFI), values alignment, teamwork, overload, and work-family conflict. Academic leaders were invited in May 2021 to participate in instructor-led formal training on leading wellness focusing on 5 core leadership skills – emotional intelligence, self-care, resilience support, demonstrating care, and managing burnout. An identical follow-up survey was electronically mailed 6 months after initial training in November 2021. Results The overall response rate of academic radiology leaders was 59% (19/32). For both measures, there was acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.63 for work exhaustion and α = 0.90 for fulfillment). There was a statistically significant improvement in work-family conflict (3.32 vs 2.86; p = 0.04). No statistically significant differences were identified for fulfillment, work exhaustion, alignment, work overload, and teamwork scores after training. Conclusion Formal instruction in leading wellness improved work-life conflict for academic radiology leaders. There was no significant change in burnout, fulfillment nor organizational alignment of the leaders. Clinical relevance statement Formal instruction in leading wellness raised awareness and improved work-life conflict in academic radiology leaders. Key Points Formal leadership training academic radiology leaders improved their work-life scores . Burnout and professional fulfilment of academic radiology leaders did not improve after their leadership development training .