Combatting Resident Burnout and Informing Outcomes, Streamlined Case Logging

Introduction: Physician burnout is a growing concern, with administrative burdens, such as surgical case-logging, contributing significantly. Recognized as a leading cause of burnout in various medical subspecialties, these tasks can be overwhelming and time-consuming. There is a paucity of research on resident workflow and efficiency. To investigate opportunities for alleviation of time-consuming processes, we developed a proof-of-concept automated case-logging system for surgical residents. This study is designed to evaluate the efficacy of automating the case-logging process.

Methods: 5 neurological surgery residents were interviewed regarding their case-logging practices. An automated workflow using Microsoft Power Automate was created and implemented. To maintain high data quality, a combination of automated checks and manual verification was employed. Following the automation trial, the residents were surveyed regarding their satisfaction with the automated workflow. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize quantitative data. Comparative analysis was performed using standard statistical methods.

Results: Automation resulted in near-instantaneous case logging. Further, the completeness of the logs improved by 30%, and accuracy improved by 20%. Surveys indicated an 80% improvement in satisfaction and uncovered two predominant logging practices, 1) log after every case and 2) log in batches at some frequency. Those who logged their cases in batches reported that this method allows them to simultaneously follow up on their patients, as a means of evaluating their own outcomes. All interviewed residents reported that they would use the time savings afforded by automatic case logging to evaluate their outcomes through chart review.

Conclusion : The implementation of the automated case-logging process marks a significant improvement over the traditional case-logging method. It not only enhances the quality and efficiency of the logs but also contributes positively to the well-being of resident surgeons. Finally, these time savings will allow residents to spend this allocated time to review their outcomes instead of the cumbersome case-logging process.