Work-Related Quality of Life and Health Issues Among United States Anesthesiologists: Results of a National Survey

Objective To assess the work-related quality of life (WRQoL) of anesthesiologists and various health issues that may have an impact on it. Patients and Methods We conducted a cross-sectional, anonymous electronic survey of active American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) members to evaluate sex-specific health conditions and WRQoL. The WRQoL included validated domains of job satisfaction, stress at work, home-work interface, control at work, and working conditions, along with demographic and professional characteristics. Descriptive statistics and multivariable analyses were used to identify factors independently associated with lower WRQoL scores. Results The survey was distributed to approximately 37,000 ASA members from September 2024 to December 2024, yielding 2292 responses. About 45.9% of respondents were women, slightly overrepresenting female anesthesiologists compared with the ASA population. Occupational and psychosocial exposures were common: 78.8% reported lifetime exposure to occupational hazards, 49.7% to harassment, and 74.6% to burnout, all of which significantly correlated with lower WRQoL ( P <.001). Multivariable analysis identified occupational hazards, harassment, and burnout as independent predictors of lower WRQoL. Female anesthesiologists had higher odds of burnout and occupational hazard exposure impacting their quality of life, whereas older physicians reported lower burnout risk. Commonly endorsed workplace improvements included consistent schedules, reduced call burden, and flexible leave policies. Conclusion This national survey represents the first large-scale assessment of WRQoL among US anesthesiologists. Findings highlight the multidimensional nature of professional well-being and underscore the importance of organizational culture, workload management, and targeted strategies to support high-risk subgroups. Addressing these factors may improve workforce sustainability.