Date of Award

8-11-2024

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Diana Soran, DMSc, PA-C

Abstract

Background: Burnout affects a high number of healthcare providers and compromises both provider and patient wellbeing. In addition to high turnover rates, burnout costs healthcare systems through errors, poor care outcomes, and decreased patient satisfaction. Mindfulness-based therapy delivered by phone apps has been successful in improving stress levels and burnout measures. Based on similar research with medical students, physician assistant students may benefit from early stress-reduction interventions, although the research surrounding implementation and long-term follow up is lacking.

Objective: This cross-sectional study looks at burnout rates across three cohorts at a single Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program as well as students’ experiences with MBT apps in the past. The goal was to determine whether providing students with an app early in their didactic education could be successful in reducing burnout symptoms and building resiliency going into clinical rotations and practice.

Methods: Students self-reported levels of stress, emotional exhaustion, and self-doubt via an online survey. They were asked about how well they felt they worked with their peers. They then reported whether they had used a mindfulness app in the past, whether they found it helpful, or it added stress, and if they would consider using one in the future.

Conclusions: 56% of students reported frequent burnout symptoms (occurring several times per month or more). There was no statistically significant correlation between burnout scores and past mindfulness app use or feelings towards an app. However, 95% of students said that they would consider using one if it were provided.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2024.Cornell.S

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