In recent years, the working conditions for general practitioners (GPs) have changed considerably. This development is driven by several factors, including an ageing population with multiple chronic conditions, shorter hospital stays, increased help-seeking among citizens, and more complex health problems being managed within general practice.
Previous studies have documented declining job satisfaction and rising levels of burnout among GPs, both in Denmark and internationally. In response, the Danish Organization of General Practitioners (PLO) has conducted a series of nationwide surveys among its members to examine the prevalence of burnout in Denmark and its relationship with job satisfaction and the shortage of GPs.
These “GP Job Satisfaction” surveys were conducted by our research group in 2012, 2016 and 2019, in collaboration with the Research Unit for General Practice in Aarhus.
Burnout is preventable and treatable. The support required depends on its severity. By drawing attention to wellbeing in general practice, we aim to increase awareness of burnout among GPs and encourage help-seeking when needed.
