Radiology Reading Burnout: The Root Cause

Another article in Science Direct titled, “Burnout: A Mindful Framework for the Radiologists” suggests that the inactive aspect of radiological reading, and working in a less-than-optimized visual setting may adversely affect the radiologist's sense of well-being. Prolonged stationary positioning is associated with chronic musculoskeletal pain and resistive strain injuries among radiologists. They also stated that:

Given that over half of radiologists reported burnout in the 2023 Medscape Physician Burnout and Depression Report¹, institutions must address the well-being of Radiologists if they are to avoid dire consequences that not only put a strain on workman’s comp but can also compromise patient care. The question is what methods are most effective? Certainly, based on the limited research cited in this article, a multi-prong solution is needed to transform the Radiologist workspace and make it as safe as possible while promoting greater productivity. It must offer sound ergonomic technology to reduce the physical stress of the Radiologist. It must include solutions that help increase visual acuity and reduce the eye strain of the Radiologist. To be sustainable, it must underpin the successful realization of the productivity goals for each Radiologist and the financial goals of the institution at large.

It is well known that movement throughout the day can help prevent workplace musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries, especially for Radiologists who read for long periods of time. Depending on the workspace environment, movement can be made easy or difficult. Many radiology departments have overcrowded small rooms with multiple computer desks that are not optimal for long hours of concentration. A workstation that allows for movement throughout the day, while reading, helps to alleviate the physical stress many Radiologists now endure. One of the most important attributes of a good ergonomically designed workstation is that it not only offers a sit or stand option, but one that has the ability to move intuitively with the user, such as the Redrick Comfort View Monitor Mounting Series shown in this video. It is also essential that the entire monitor array can be raised or lowered independently of the desktop. This allows individual users to find the best possible position to maintain good ergonomic posturing.

An effective workstation provides a monitor mount that enables radiologists to intuitively bring the image as close as needed, whenever needed. Each display on the monitor array should be easily and independently adjusted to meet the visual needs of each radiologist. In addition, workstations that provide means to affect the ambient lighting surrounding the workstation further the effectiveness of the workspace to promote well-being and increase productivity. This is illustrated at 0:45 of this video.  Ambient lighting is key for accurate viewing of images and to minimize eyestrain and visual fatigue. Task lighting is also needed to review paperwork. Since each Radiologist has a slightly different preference, light sources should include the ability to control both types of illumination.

There is probably nothing worse than spending money one year only to find out that the product purchased needs to be replaced the following year, or even two or three years down the line. Second to that, is dealing with downtime due to poor engineering. Therefore, it is imperative that workspaces provide long-lasting performance that endures well into the future. Engineering is key. It is crucial that the mechanisms allow for smooth transitions if movement is to be promoted. The monitor mount must be engineered to support multiple heavy displays. Displays are a big investment, and if the monitor mount is not engineered correctly, mechanisms can wear over time. This leads to unstable positioning in which monitors are vulnerable to sagging and falling forward. Read the Must-Haves for Lasting Value, here.

As each year passes, the demands placed on Radiologists become increasingly intense, and therefore, burnout is rising. Healthcare institutions must address this issue if they are to prosper in the coming years. Certainly, the industry needs larger and more targeted studies to sort through the root cause. However, there are many articles and studies that are now published on the web that collectively suggest proper ergonomically designed workspaces can help mitigate burnout among Radiologists and help create a more productive and safe work environment. This article highlights only a few.