Occupational burnout among healthcare workers in Central Asia during the COVID-19 pandemic

Occupational burnout (OB) among healthcare workers (HCWs) has significant implications for workforce sustainability and patient care. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing stressors, highlighting the urgent need to investigate burnout prevalence and associated factors among HCWs in Central Asia (CA). This study aimed to assess burnout levels, explore contributing factors, and evaluate the impact of job satisfaction and pandemic-related stressors. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between July and November 2022 among physicians and nurses in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. The survey included the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI), a validated job satisfaction scale, and a measure assessing the impact of COVID-19 on work and personal life. Burnout prevalence and associated factors were analyzed using regression modeling and mediation analysis. Among 2685 HCWs (Kazakhstan: 67.7%, Kyrgyzstan: 19.9%, Uzbekistan: 12.4%), the overall prevalence of OB was 28.3%. Physicians had higher burnout levels than nurses, with job satisfaction playing a mediating role in this disparity in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. A poor work environment and high job demands were strongly linked to OB (p < 0.001). HCWs with severe COVID-19 histories experienced significantly greater burnout (OR 1.346-2.270, p < 0.05). Pandemic-related stressors, including social stigma, excessive workload, and lack of appreciation, were significant predictors of burnout. OB remains a critical issue among HCWs in CA, with job satisfaction, workplace conditions, and pandemic-related stressors playing key roles. Targeted interventions, such as workload optimization, institutional support, and mental health resources, are essential to mitigate OB and improve HCW well-being.