Physicians' Views on a Wellbeing Course Gifted to Them: A Qualitative Study

INTRODUCTION Given concerns about staff burnout and distress, the Chief of the Department of Medicine sponsored the Physician Wellbeing program making it cost-free for doctors at a large academic medical setting. Ninety doctors registered within the 1-year pilot project time frame. Following a Mind-Body Medicine online and Mindful Medical Practice workshop a qualitative study was conducted to identify physicians' views about the initiative. Physicians who agreed to take part following the workshops were the participants in the study. METHODS Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted following 4 workshops. Participants (N = 15) were queried about helpful and unhelpful aspects of the program. Thematic framework analysis was employed for data analysis. RESULTS Four themes regarding participants' views on the well-being course were identified. These were: 1) online curriculum (from engaging to disengaging); 2) intimate sharing amongst physicians in the workshop; 3) reflecting on and practicing wellness; and 4) a valuable "gift" from the Department of Medicine. Workshops were highly valued as they provided an opportunity to practice what was learned online as well as engage in fruitful exchanges amongst colleagues. CONCLUSIONS Physicians supported the integration of wellness programs into medical settings where stress is an inherent aspect of the work environment. They were grateful for the "gift" of being valued and supported by the administration.