BURNOUT RATES are significantly higher among physicians specialising in sickle cell disease compared with their peers in haematology oncology, with systemic and occupational factors contributing to this disparity.
Burnout In Sickle Cell Disease Physicians
Burnout is a recognised concern across haematology oncology, with up to 45% of physicians in the United States reporting symptoms. However, data specific to those caring for patients with sickle cell disease have been limited. In a nationwide survey, researchers compared burnout prevalence between physicians focused on sickle cell disease and those without this clinical focus.
A total of 159 physicians participated, including 55 specialising in sickle cell disease and 104 in other areas. Burnout prevalence was significantly higher among sickle cell disease physicians, affecting 60% compared with 44% of their counterparts (p=0.046). This difference occurred despite similar levels of grit and resilience between the groups.
Workplace Factors and Mediators
Work related characteristics varied between groups and appeared to influence burnout risk. Physicians specialising in sickle cell disease reported similar working hours to others in the field but were less likely to engage in recreational activities at least twice per week, reported by 45% compared with 59% (p=0.006). They were also less likely to express strong job pride, with 47% strongly agreeing compared with 65% of non-specialising physicians (p=0.031).
In addition, these physicians were more likely to report annual earnings below 350,000 US dollars, at 64% versus 40% (p=0.005). They also tended to have more years in practice and were more frequently employed in academic or leadership roles. Mediation analysis identified reduced recreational activity and lower job pride as key contributors to burnout.
Implications For Workforce Sustainability
Burnout is associated with physician attrition, increased risk of medical errors, and reduced productivity, raising concerns for workforce sustainability in high acuity specialties. The findings suggest that physicians caring for patients with sickle cell disease face unique systemic challenges that may disproportionately increase burnout risk.
Addressing these factors may be critical to improving physician wellbeing and maintaining quality of care. The study highlights the need for targeted strategies to support this workforce and mitigate the broader impact of burnout within haematology oncology.
Reference
Restrepo V et al. Burnout in sickle cell disease-focused hematology-oncology trained physicians: a national cross-sectional study. Blood Adv. 2026; https://doi.org/10.1182/bloodadvances.2025018338.
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