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Burnout among public health workers during the COVID-19 response: Results from a follow-up survey

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  • Sarah Elizabeth Scales
  • Kristina W Kintziger
  • Kahler W Stone
  • Meredith A Jagger
  • Jennifer A Horney

Abstract

The public health workforce began the response to the COVID-19 pandemic with a critical workforce deficit, losing 20% of staff between 2018 and 2019. This study assesses changes in burnout among a cohort of 80 public health workers in the U.S. who completed multiple assessments during the ongoing COVID-19 response via Qualtrics. Self-reported burnout was assessed using a 5-point, validated, non-proprietary single-item measure. A binary burnout variable (1,2 = No; 3,4,5 = Yes) was created based on responses. Burnout direction (e.g., decreased, same, increased) was derived from changes in five-level work-related burnout scores. Factors indicating work-related exhaustion was higher among individuals reporting burnout in the follow-up survey compared to those without burnout. Baseline burnout, hours worked per week, and sleep quality were significant predictors of burnout at follow-up. A higher proportion of respondents reported burnout at follow-up than at the baseline survey. The ubiquitous nature of burnout among public health workers is a threat to the wellbeing of individuals in the workforce and the population’s health at large. Investments in expanding and supporting the public health workforce are needed.

Suggested Citation

  • Sarah Elizabeth Scales & Kristina W Kintziger & Kahler W Stone & Meredith A Jagger & Jennifer A Horney, 2024. "Burnout among public health workers during the COVID-19 response: Results from a follow-up survey," PLOS Mental Health, Public Library of Science, vol. 1(3), pages 1-10, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pmen00:0000100
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmen.0000100
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kahler W. Stone & Kristina W. Kintziger & Meredith A. Jagger & Jennifer A. Horney, 2021. "Public Health Workforce Burnout in the COVID-19 Response in the U.S," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(8), pages 1-11, April.
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