Economic dimensions of burnout among medical professionals in Bulgaria

Abstract Healthcare professionals in Bulgaria are working in terms of increasing stress which is reflected in burnout syndrome in recent years. Reasons are multiple and complex. The purpose of this study was to examine the economic aspects and consequences of burnout for health professionals. For its implementation were solved the following tasks: analysis and assessment of the environment in which they live and work; analysis and evaluation of burnout rate; possible approaches to solving problems. Participants and data collection: 1500 doctors and 1500 nurses have completed an anonymous questionnaire on burnout rate. More than 50% of our respondents physicians and nurses show moderate-to-high and -very-high degree of burnout. Social and economic aspects of the burnout syndrome among medical professionals is reflected in reduced performance, low self-estimation, decreased quality of patient care, and therefore in some cases, lower medical treatment effect. Prevention of the burnout syndrome should be developed and implemented in programs at individual and team level. With their help at the first signs specialists and the managerial team of the health institution will be able to take adequate measures for treatment and rehabilitation.