Leadership and Physician Burnout: Using the Annual Review to Reduce Burnout and Promote Engagement

Behaviors of physician leaders have a profound impact on the well-being and professional satisfaction of the physicians they lead. 4 behaviors leaders need to demonstrate are transparent communication (keep people informed), humble inquiry (ask for their ideas and suggestions), facilitation of professional development (sincere interest in career goals of reports and facilitate progress through coaching/mentorship/opportunity), and recognizing individual contributions and achievements of those they lead. The annual review is one underutilized tool for leaders to reduce burnout and cultivate engagement and employ the 4 behaviors.