An Interprofessional Group Intervention to Promote Faculty Well-Being: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Susan R. Hata, Lori R. Berkowitz, Kaitlyn James, Arabella L. Simpkin
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the effect on engagement, relational connection, and burnout of an intervention involving clinical faculty meeting in interprofessional self-facilitated groups and to determine whether a written discussion guide is necessary to achieve benefit. METHODS: This is a randomized controlled trial, conducted at a large US academic medical center from May to August 2018. Subjects included 25 clinical physicians, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse midwives. The intervention involved three monthly self-facilitated groups for faculty. Groups were randomized to have no discussion guide, or to receive a one-page guide. Outcomes of burnout, engagement, and empowerment in work, and stress from uncertainty were assessed using validated metrics. RESULTS: Rates of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization decreased significantly over the course of the 3-month study (56%-36%; P < .001; and 20%-15%; P = .006) and overall burnout decreased from 56% to 41% of faculty (P = .002). The percentage of faculty who felt engaged in their work increased from 80% to 96% (P = .03). No statistically significant differences in empowerment at work or in reaction to uncertainty were seen. The groups without a discussion guide had equivalent outcomes and benefits. Cost per participant was under $100. DISCUSSION: A three-month, low-cost, self-facilitated series of dinner meetings for interprofessional clinical faculty decreased burnout and improved engagement, sense of connection to colleagues, and sense of departmental commitment to well-being. Structured discussion guides were not necessary to achieve benefit. This study broadens the possibilities for cost-effective opportunities to transform institutional culture and effectively enhance faculty well-being.