Physician Burnout and Fulfilment in Sierra Leone Ii: an Online Cross-Sectional Study

Background Physician burnout is a significant occupational hazard, with a high prevalence in low- and middle-income countries. The burnout rate among clinicians in Sierra Leone, however, is unknown. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of burnout among Sierra Leonean physicians. Methods A cross-sectional, online-based study was conducted among 153 physicians across Sierra Leone. Using the Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index (PFI), the study assessed burnout as well as sociodemographic and workplace characteristics. Results The overall rates of burnout and professional fulfillment were 58.8 percent and 26.8 percent, respectively. Six variables, professional status, nationality, salary sufficiency, age of youngest and oldest children, and years in practice, were significantly associated with both burnout and professional fulfillment. Three factors (marital status, subspecialty, and supplementary income) were independently associated only with burnout, while four others (type of employer, practice location, hazardous drinking, and commuting distance to work) were associated only with professional fulfillment. Conclusion The burnout rate is high, while the professional fulfillment rate is low, among physicians practicing in Sierra Leone. Strategies designed to mitigate burnout while promoting professional fulfilment are needed among physicians in Sierra Leone.