Risk factors for burnout in Australian general practice registrars: A qualitative study

Background and objectives: Research examining medical trainee burnout has typically not focused within specialties. The present study therefore explored perspectives and experiences of registrar burnout among Australian general practice training stakeholders. 

Methods: Registrars, supervisors, training coordinators and educators (n = 47) from a single training organisation completed interviews and participated in focus groups. Data were iteratively analysed using template analysis and grounded theory. 

Results: Risk factors for burnout were categorised into three themes: (1) lack of personal and/or job resources; (2) high demand or workload; and (3) unsupportive psychosocial context. Registrar subgroups (ie junior/senior, rural/urban) faced further specific risk factors. 

Discussion: Identified themes highlight the complex nature of burnout development, including factors pertinent to the Australian general practice context. The findings highlight key areas for interventional design, including optimising supervision and educational practices to meet registrars’ needs and easing the adjustment to general practice from hospital settings.