Burnout and career satisfaction in neurology

TL;DR

Lithuanian neurologists experience high burnout rates linked to poor work-rest balance and diagnostic limitations, despite overall career satisfaction.

Contribution

This study provides novel insights into burnout and career satisfaction among Lithuanian neurologists, identifying specific predictors and subjective experiences.

Findings

44.1% of neurologists reported personal burnout symptoms, often linked to insufficient personal time and poor sleep.

Most neurologists (78.4%) were satisfied with their career and would choose neurology again despite challenges.

Cognitive and sleep-wake disorders were identified as the most emerging areas in the field.

Abstract

Neurology ranks among specialties with the highest burnout rates, yet little is known about neurologists' subjective experiences. We aimed to assess burnout, career satisfaction and associated factors among Lithuanian neurologists, as well as their views on the field's future.

From June 2024 to March 2025, we conducted a cross-sectional anonymous survey of Lithuanian neurologists. The questionnaire assessed career satisfaction, work–rest balance, and perspectives on neurology. Burnout was measured using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory. Stepwise linear regression identified associated factors.

Responses were obtained from 111 neurologists (73.0% female; mean age 53.2 ± 12.8 years; mean practice 26.0 ± 14.0 years). Personal, work-related and patient-related symptoms of burnout were present at least sometimes in 44.1%, 30.6%, and 27.0% of respondents, respectively, and commonly linked to insufficient personal time, inadequate leisure, and poor sleep. Regression analyses (Radj2 = 0.11–0.33) identified insufficient personal time and perceived diagnostic limitations as key predictors of burnout. Most participants were satisfied with their role as neurologists (78.4%) and would choose the specialty again (79.3%). While anticipating therapeutic advances, they predicted future declines in healthcare capacity, nursing, and rehabilitation services. Cognitive disorders (74.8%) and sleep–wake disorders (63.1%) were most often cited as emerging areas.

Despite high career satisfaction and optimism regarding therapeutic progress, symptoms of burnout are prevalent among Lithuanian neurologists, driven by suboptimal work–rest balance and systemic limitations. These findings emphasize the need for organizational and policy measures to support physician wellbeing and strengthen healthcare efficiency.

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