Status and perceptions of work from home in three academic musculoskeletal radiology divisions

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the status and perception of work from home (WFH) in three academic musculoskeletal radiology divisions.

Materials and methods

A 17-item anonymous online survey related to WFH was administered to all musculoskeletal (MSK) faculty (n = 27) of three academic radiology divisions between April and July 2023. Survey items included demographics, clinical work environment, presence of a WFH policy, number of days WFH and desired WFH days, commute, perceived benefits and drawbacks of WFH, and symptoms of burnout. Statistical analysis included the Cochrane-Armitage trend test and Fisher exact test. The study was exempt from IRB approval.

Results

The survey response rate was 85% (57% men, 57% white, 57% established career, defined by > 10 years in practice). In 47%, an informal policy allowed WHF on certain rotations including moonlighting/call. Seventeen percent had no opportunity to WFH. WFH 1–2 days/week was reported in 73% of respondents while 27% did not WFH. None of the respondents worked from home more than 2 days/week. Women worked from home more compared to men (p = 0.02). Perceived advantages of WFH included efficiency (no commute/parking) (76%), flexibility (52%), autonomy (33%), and increased productivity (29%). Fifty-seven percent preferred in-person read out particularly for first year trainees, with 52% preferring a virtual or hybrid model.

Conclusion

WFH is common in academic MSK practices and perceived to be beneficial to MSK faculty. These findings should be taken into consideration when designing WFH policies.