Abstract
Introduction
Access to patients’ electronic medical records (EMRs) on personal communication devices
(PCDs) is beneficial but can negatively impact surgeons. In a recent op-ed, Cohen
et al. explored this technology “empowerment/enslavement paradox” and its potential effect
on surgeon burnout. We examined if there is a relationship between accessing EMRs
on PCDs and surgeon burnout.
Methods
This was a cohort study with retrospective and prospective arms. Trainees and attendings
with a background in general surgery completed the Maslach Burnout Index for Medical
Personnel, a validated survey scored on three areas of burnout (emotional exhaustion,
depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment). Data on login frequency to EMRs
on PCDs over the previous 6 mo were obtained. Pearson correlation coefficients were
calculated to determine if burnout and login frequency were associated.
Results
There were 52 participants included. Residents were 61.5% (n = 32) of participants. The mean login frequency over 6 mo was 431.0 ± 323.9. The
mean scores (out of 6) for emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment
were 2.3 ± 1.1, 1.9 ± 1.2, and 4.9 ± 0.8, respectively. There was no correlation between
burnout and logins. Residents had higher median depersonalization scores (2.3 versus 1.2, P = 0.03) and total logins (417.5 versus 210.0, P < 0.001) than attendings. Participants who overestimated logins had higher median
emotional exhaustion and depersonalization scores than those who underestimated (2.6
versus 1.4, P = 0.03, and 2.4 versus 0.8, P = 0.003, respectively).
Conclusions
Using EMRs on PCDs is common, but frequency of logins did not correlate with burnout
scores in this study. However, perception of increased workload may contribute to experiencing
burnout.
Graphical abstract
Graphical Abstract
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: January 23, 2023
Accepted:
December 25,
2022
Received in revised form:
November 17,
2022
Received:
September 2,
2022
Identification
Copyright
© 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
