Burnout found in GPs

High levels of burnout have been found in family doctors, a study of GPs in south-east England suggests.

A survey of 564 GPs assessed whether they were in danger of burnout using a validated measure, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). The doctors were evaluated for emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation expressed as negativity and cynicism, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.

Almost half, 46%, fitted the criteria for emotional exhaustion. A high score for one of the components linked to high scores in the other two. Males were found to be significantly more likely to be depersonalised, as were those who had been qualified for less than 20 years.

GPs working in a group practice were also more likely to have high levels of burnout and be depersonalised. In principle, group practices should be able to offer more support.

The authors of the study, published in the BMJ Open, suggest: “The finding could be the result of group practice creating extra demands on practitioners while raising the possibility of interpersonal tensions and conflicts. Regardless of cause, these findings are worrying as group practices are increasing in size and number.”

While the burnout in these doctors had no detrimental impact on their interpersonal skills or patient centredness, the authors urge GPs to review their work, as they are largely responsible for their own health.

They conclude: “Whatever the reasons [for depersonalisation], a significant group of doctors is in trouble. The NHS nationally and locally needs to review its policies, especially when generating increased pressures for this, the largest group of NHS doctors.