2021 to 2025 saw reduction in burnout indicators among pediatricians
· Medical Xpressby Elana Gotkine
edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Andrew Zinin
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From 2021 to 2025, burnout indicators among pediatricians decreased, according to a study published in Pediatrics.
Mary Pat Frintner, M.S.P.H., of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in Itasca, Illinois, and colleagues analyzed data from the AAP Pediatrician Life and Career Experience Study to examine burnout indicators during a five-year period, from 2021 to 2025, among 2,353 pediatricians.
The researchers found significant decreases in burnout indicators over time among all participants combined and nearly all subgroups examined.
Three factors were associated with decreases across the four burnout indicators (current burnout, emotional exhaustion, disconnection or cynicism, and not accomplishing anything worthwhile at work): changing jobs, increased flexibility in work schedules and reduced busyness in work settings (e.g., adjusted odds ratios of 0.27, 0.48, 0.58 and 0.43, respectively, for the four burnout indicators associated with changing jobs).
Reduced current burnout and less emotional exhaustion were associated with increased support from colleagues, increased sleep and increased time with patients.
"While the reported decreases are encouraging, the overall prevalence remains concerning and underscores the need for continued attention and action, particularly in the context of ongoing challenges within the pediatric workforce," the authors write.
Publication details
Mary Pat Frintner et al, Pediatrician Burnout Over Time: 2021–2025, Pediatrics (2026). DOI: 10.1542/peds.2026-076643
Journal information: Pediatrics
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