Prevalence, Determinants, and Impact of Burnout among Healthcare Professionals Employed by Non-Governmental Organizations in North-Central Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract:
Burnout continues to pose a threat to the global healthcare workforce and impacts employee well-being, patient care, and the healthcare system. Healthcare professionals in Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Nigeria provide critical public health services working in a unique environment characterized by donor funding, high workloads, and donor-driven targets, creating a high-risk environment for burnout. Despite their extensive role in Nigeria’s healthcare system, data on burnout among NGO healthcare professionals remain scarce. This study examined the prevalence, determinants, and health effects of burnout among healthcare professionals in selected NGOs in North‑Central Nigeria. We conducted a cross-sectional study between October and November 2024. Participants completed an online questionnaire covering socio-demographic/work-related items, a 15-item Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), and the 12-item Health Related Quality of Life Short Form (SF-12). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and multilevel regression models in R (Version 4.4.2). 130 healthcare professionals (response rate of 36%) participated in the study. Overall burnout prevalence was 60.8%, defined as the presence of burnout in at least one of three dimensions. Low personal accomplishment was the most prevalent burnout dimension (57.7%), followed by depersonalization (16.2%) and emotional exhaustion (2.3%). Demographic characteristics were not significantly associated with burnout. Longer daily work hours were significantly associated with emotional exhaustion (p = 0.002). Burnout is highly prevalent among healthcare professionals working in NGOs in North-Central Nigeria, driven primarily by work-related demands. Organizational strategies focused on workload and workplace support are recommended to improve staff’s well-being and sustain the delivery of quality healthcare services.References:
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