Perspectives from a Residency Training Program Following the Implementation of a Wellness Initiative

Background and objectives: Programs that address overall wellbeing early in residency are necessary to prevent physician burnout and promote physician mental health to improve patient outcomes and ensure long and productive careers. A wellness initiative was implemented at our institution 3 years ago. We present feedback from participating residents across all levels of training.

Methods: A 17-question survey was administered to resident physicians in the department of neurosurgery at our institution. In addition to the resident survey results, we obtained personal perspective pieces from attendings and residents across all levels of training.

Results: A total of 8 resident physicians completed a 17-question survey. 100% of participants felt that health and wellness initiatives are "very important" for resident physicians, that the initiative has been "largely positive" for the department overall, and that is has positively impacted their personal life in addition to their professional life. The majority (75%) of respondents indicated that participation has not affected patient care responsibilities "at all."

Conclusions: Participating resident perceptions of the wellness program are highly favorable. The survey results, combined with the perspectives across training levels, provide insight for other programs wishing to implement program of their own.