Mindfulness-based stress reduction for GPs: results of a controlled mixed methods pilot study in Dutch primary care
Hanne Verweij, Ruth C. Waumans, Danique Smeijers, Peter Lucassen, A. Rogier T. Donders, Henriëtte E. van der Horst, Anne E. M. Speckens
British Journal of General Practice January 28, 2016 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp16x683497 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA pilot study of 50 Dutch general practitioners (GPs) found that an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course reduced depersonalization (a key burnout symptom) and increased dedication and mindfulness skills compared to a waiting-list control group. Empathy did not change significantly. Qualitative reports indicated the training improved wellbeing and compassion toward self, others, and patients. The authors conclude MBSR is feasible for GPs and may reduce burnout and improve work engagement, but call for a fully powered randomized trial to confirm the results.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Mixed methods pilot study, including a waiting list-controlled pre-/post-study and a qualitative study Randomized Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 50 |
| Population | Dutch general practitioners (GPs) |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) |
| Duration | 8-week MBSR training; pre- and post-training/waiting period assessment |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Mindfulness-based stress reduction Burnout Empathy Medicine Clinical psychology |
| Citations | 80 |
| Key finding | MBSR reduced depersonalization and increased dedication and mindfulness skills in GPs, but did not significantly change empathy. |
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Burnout is highly prevalent in GPs and can have a negative influence on their wellbeing, performance, and patient care. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) may be an effective intervention to decrease burnout symptoms and increase wellbeing. AIM: To gain insight into the feasibility and effectiveness of MBSR on burnout, empathy, and (work-related) wellbeing in GPs. DESIGN AND SETTING: A mixed methods pilot study, including a waiting list-controlled pre-/post-study and a qualitative study of the experiences of participating GPs in the Netherlands. METHOD: Participants were sent questionnaires assessing burnout, work engagement, empathy, and mindfulness skills, before and at the end of the MBSR training/waiting period. Qualitative data on how GPs experienced the training were collected during a plenary session and with evaluation forms at the end of the course. RESULTS: Fifty Dutch GPs participated in this study. The MBSR group reported a greater decrease in depersonalisation than the control group (adjusted difference -1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -2.72 to -0.21, P = 0.03). Dedication increased more significantly in the MBSR group than in the control group (adjusted difference 2.17, 95% CI = 0.51 to 3.83, P = 0.01). Mindfulness skills increased significantly in the MBSR group compared with the control group (adjusted difference 6.90, 95% CI = 1.42 to 12.37, P = 0.01). There was no significant change in empathy. The qualitative data indicated that the MBSR course increased their wellbeing and compassion towards themselves and others, including their patients. CONCLUSION: The study shows that MBSR for GPs is feasible and might result in fewer burnout symptoms and increased work engagement and wellbeing. However, an adequately powered randomised controlled trial is needed to confirm the study's findings.