The Prevalence and Work-Related Factors of Burnout Among Public Health Workforce During the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE: To examine the prevalence of burnout and its work-related factors among public health providers (PHP) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: We surveyed 366 PHP in May 2021 on their burnout, demographic, and work-related characteristics. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify associated factors.

RESULTS: 45% PHP reported burnout. Higher PHP burnout was associated with younger age (AOR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93-0.99), prolonged COVID-19 involvement (AOR 2.35, 95% CI 1.16-4.72), as well as perceiving medium (AOR 2.10, 95% CI 1.27-3.48) and high emotional demand (AOR 4.45, 95% CI 1.67-11.77), low (AOR 2.10, 95% CI 1.27-3.48) and medium (AOR 4.18, 95% CI 1.64-10.59) role clarity, medium job satisfaction (AOR 3.21, 95% CI: 1.11-9.29), and low organisational justice (AOR 3.32, 95% CI 1.51-7.27).

CONCLUSIONS: Improving job content and organisational characteristics may be key to reducing PHP burnout.