Neurology is among the highest in burnout rates among medical specialties, and recent national data suggests that burnout symptoms are more prevalent among neurology residents when compared to practicing neurologists and residents in other specialties.  We hypothesized that the creation of a formal structure to assess and promote wellness among neurology residents would facilitate the development of interventions associated with measurable improvements in factors related to burnout.

Response rates were high at baseline (21/34=62%) and follow-up (25/33=76%).  Interventions pursued in the RWC’s first year included education on handling unexpected absences, adjustments to holiday schedule policies, infrastructure for nutrition and respite, and a team-based department fitness challenge, among others.  Measurable improvements were observed on the follow-up survey related to schedule flexibility at times of need, increased program camaraderie, and a smaller proportion of respondents endorsing moderate-to-severe burnout symptoms.  At both time points, more than 80% of respondents endorsed at least mild burnout symptoms, despite the fact that clinical workload, independence, and preparedness were overwhelmingly viewed positively.

Through deliberate and sustained efforts guided by data, our work demonstrates that concrete changes can be successfully implemented at the local level to measurably promote well-being among neurology residents.