Burnout Predictors Among Direct Clinical Services Health Care Professionals in Community Health Centers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

PurposeAssess burnout prevalence, identify the healthcare professionals experiencing burnout, and identify organizational predictors of burnout in community health centers (CHCs) nationwide.ApproachIn 2022 the Health Resources and Services Administration administered surveys to assess health center workforce well-being among the 1400+ community health centers that it oversees. Our team statistically evaluated the findings to isolate the factors likely to predict burnout among center healthcare professionals.SettingData completed by staff in 694 CHCs.ParticipantsRespondents were 52 568 healthcare professionals.MethodsChi-squared tests derived homogeneity in burnout among occupations; proportion tests evaluated differences in burnout indicators; and structural equation modeling with latent variables estimated direct and indirect effects of organizational burnout predictors and mediators.ResultsUp to 77% of direct clinical service professionals endorsed at least one symptom of burnout and reported higher burnout rates than management (P < .001). The most significant burnout predictors were engagement (-0.263***), work-life balance (0.281***), workload (0.174***) and professional growth (0.143***). For engagement, a perception of disconnection with the CHC predicted heightened burnout. Work-life balance, workload, and professional growth each had a positive effect on burnout, demonstrating that higher perceived work demands, greater work-life imbalance, and increased professional growth opportunities equated to higher burnout.ConclusionResults highlight the need to redesign healthcare delivery models to mitigate burnout, promote provider engagement and enhance workforce well-being.