Improving well-being among women in neonatology

• Published in: Journal of perinatology
• Main Authors: Yanni, Diana, Scheid, Annette, Sinha, Cynthia B, Ramsey, Kara Wong, Hempel, Bridget, Hubbard, Dena, Pappagallo, Mariann, Vargas, Laura, Gowda, Sharada, Savich, Renate, Dammann, Christiane, Vyas-Read, Shilpa
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 30-08-2024
• ISSN: 0743-8346; 1476-5543; 1476-5543
• DOI: 10.1038/s41372-024-02091-2

To evaluate the factors that improve professional and personal well-being amongst women in neonatology (WiN).
A 30-question survey of multiple choice, rank order, and open-ended questions focused on professional and personal factors that affect the well-being of WiN members. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to determine leading factors and themes.
Of 326 respondents, 64% felt "well" professionally over half of the time. Professional well-being was most affected by scheduling flexibility, helping patients, administrative and staffing support, feelings of being valued, and clinical workload/acuity. Time for family and self-care, having domestic help, and scheduling flexibility were factors that most positively impacted personal well-being.
In this national survey, WiN members identified the factors that can improve their well-being. Strategic planning and targeted interventions are urgently needed to enhance work-life integration and job satisfaction, leading to improved neonatal workforce retention and improved quality of patient care.