Authors: Martin Huecker, MD (1) and Brian Ferguson, DO, MPH (1,2) – Editors-in-Chief
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Abstract
Introduction: Wellness leaders are aware that a literature search yields thousands of articles on burnout, less on wellness, and no consistent, reliable source of publication. This validates the mission of JWellness, to collect editorials and research in one location, free for all to read and publish, allowing dissemination to all healthcare professionals. This is the first bi-annual review of wellness literature by JWellness.
Methods: Pubmed database from January to June (2019) was queried for keywords: “burnout,” “wellness,” “well-being,” in “physicians” and “healthcare professionals.” JWellness editors sought to collect answers and insight into this latest epoch of wellness research. While highlighting certain projects of this broad domain, this review is also intended to inspire additional questions, and welcome letters to confirm, criticize or expand on this content.
Literature in Review: Common themes in current wellness publications include individual versus system responsibilities, the financial benefits of a healthy workforce, and wellness as distinct from the absence of burnout. The healthcare professions literature maintains a disproportionate focus on the description of burnout, with a small (but increasing) number of studies on mitigating burnout.
Conclusions: Burnout does not discriminate based on salary, healthcare profession, level of training, or country. Studies continue to frame strategies as combating burnout, rather than enhancing wellness and promoting thriving in the workplace. JWellness believes we should seek substantially more articles on resiliency and thriving.
Affiliation:
1 Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Louisville
2 Emergency Department, Keesler Air Force Base