[High commitment despite high task load: work-related evaluation in the implementation of a virtual multidisciplinary limb board].

Abstract

Background: As part of the evaluation of a virtual multidisciplinary expert board to improve the treatment of trauma to the lower extremities (project EXPERT), work-related aspects are examined in addition to medical and economic outcomes. Initial results of a survey of employees involved in EXPERT are presented here.

Material and methods: Clinical staff worked on an online questionnaire on the topics of workload, work commitment, work-related resources and technical readiness. Work-related resources are physical, social and organizational aspects for overcoming work demands, such as peer support, feedback, opportunities to learn and meaningfulness of work. Factors that have a significant effect on work commitment and willingness to work were recorded.

Results: At the beginning of the project, the work commitment was very high, although the individual workload was also high. When individual stress was high, the willingness to use technology increased if sufficient work-related resources were available. Nonmedical staff showed a high willingness to use technology, especially with limited resources. With high team-related stress, e.g. due to conflicts and only a few resources, the willingness to use technology was particularly low.

Discussion: Diverse work-related resources not only strengthen work commitment but also the acceptance of digital innovations. In the case of high individual stress, employees, especially members of the nonmedical professions, perceived the use of technology as helpful. The prerequisite for this is that the cooperation in the team works.