Burnout and workload among hematologists in the Community of Madrid (Spain): a survey based on the Copenhagen burnout inventory.

BACKGROUND: Burnout is highly prevalent among hematologists, with rates reported ranging from 40 to 50%, driven by the unique combination of high clinical complexity, frequent exposure to life-threatening conditions, and the rapid evolution of therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of burnout among hematologists working in the Community of Madrid, and to examine its impact on their professional performance and personal and social well-being. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study based on an online self-administered survey. Hematologists across all professional settings were invited to participate by completing the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Overall CBI scores and subscale scores (personal, work-related, and patient-related burnout) were calculated. Subgroup analyses were performed according to demographic and professional variables. RESULTS: Forty percent (129/320) of the invited hematologists participated in the survey. Respondents reported significant symptoms of exhaustion and an increased risk of burnout, particularly in the work-related domain. Sixty percent of the respondents often or always experienced fatigue, and 23% frequently felt they "cannot take it anymore." Eighty-four percent reported that work was emotionally exhausting at least sometimes, and 39% frequently ended the workday exhausted. In addition, 55% reported having little energy for family and friends. Patient-related burnout was generally moderate, yet over half strongly agreed that working with patients is hard. Physical or verbal aggression increased from 23 to 30% between 2023 and 2024 (n = 44). Mean CBI scores were 43.93 (SD 18.6) for personal, 46.29 (SD 16.0) for work-related, and 45.25 (SD 21.2) for patient-related burnout, with a total score of 45.16 (SD 15.2); 28% of participants reached at least a moderate level of exhaustion on the total score. Thirty-five percent of respondents (18 of the 53 who answered this item) required psychological or psychiatric consultation in 2024. CONCLUSION: Hematologists in the Community of Madrid reported relevant symptoms of exhaustion across all dimensions assessed. Workload was the factor most frequently cited by respondents as contributing to burnout. These findings underscore the need for organizational interventions to reduce workload and protect work-life balance.