The Impact of Implementing Virtual Diabetes Group Visits on Staff and Provider Wellbeing, Job Satisfaction, and Burnout: A Mixed Methods Analysis

Rationale

Few have assessed the impact of group visits (GVs), or shared medical appointments, on community health centre (CHC) staff and provider burnout, wellness, and job satisfaction.

Aims and Objectives

This study assesses the impact of diabetes GV implementation on staff and provider morale and burnout.

Methods

It is a pre-post study from a larger cluster randomised trial. Two cohorts of providers and staff from 13 Midwestern CHC clinics implemented in-person (N = 39) and virtual (N = 31) GVs for adults with diabetes. Semi-structured interviews (post-implementation) and surveys (pre and post-implementation) were conducted with staff and providers in both cohorts to assess changes in burnout, staff morale, and job satisfaction, along with reported benefits and burdens of GVs. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts and significance testing for survey data was then performed.

Results

Interview data came from the in-person cohort (N = 15) and the virtual cohort (N = 19). Survey data were collected from a total of 70 respondents from the in-person (N = 39) and virtual (N = 31) cohorts. Key results include reported improved relationships with colleagues (‘it has made our professional relationships stronger and I feel more comfortable talking about other things, as well’.), strengthened connections with patients (‘We were able to help patients on a deeper level and provide more detail and one-on-one care’.), and individual reward (‘Morale has increased. They're contributing and doing something positive for the patients’.). When asked about in-person versus virtual GVs, respondents noted they preferred in-person care but appreciated the flexibility virtual care afforded. Survey results revealed improved job satisfaction in the 2018 cohort and improved morale in the 2020 cohort, as well as perceived benefits including increased interprofessional collaboration and increased connection to patients.

Conclusions

Implementation of GVs in the CHC setting impacted key areas of burnout, including relationships, job attachment, and feelings of meaningful contribution in the workplace among providers and staff. Future clinic-based implementation studies may consider measuring staff and provider well-being as part of the evaluation.