Insiders as outsiders: burnout and its determinants among acupuncture practitioners in China’s public hospitals

Burnout is prevalent among acupuncture practitioners in China's public hospitals and is influenced by multiple factors. Alleviating burnout in this context requires a multi-level strategy: developing a human-centered occupational support system, aligning organizational management with the specific needs of acupuncture practice, implementing tailored and sustainable work mechanisms, and fostering a socially supportive environment. This study broadens the scope of burnout research by applying it to acupuncture practitioners and provides actionable recommendations to improve working conditions and promote the well-being of acupuncture practitioners in public healthcare systems.