Traumatized attendings – When the doctor has the disease

Abstract Background This study aims to compare PTSD prevalence between seven medical specialties and to identify potential risk factors for PTSD. Methods A cross-sectional national survey of attending physicians (n = 2216) was conducted and screened for PTSD using the Primary Care PTSD Screen. Stepwise multivariable regression analysis with backward elimination identified potential risk factors. Results Overall prevalence of PTSD was 14% and ranged from 7% to 18% for psychiatrists and OBGYNs, respectively (p = 0.004). Six potential risk factors for PTSD included: emotional exhaustion, job dissatisfaction, lack of autonomy, working >60 h per week, poor camaraderie, and female gender (p  Conclusions The prevalence of PTSD in attending physicians is more than double that of the general population. Higher risk specialties include OBGYN and general surgery. Specialty-specific interventions targeted at reducing physician burnout and improving the physician work-environment are needed to improve physician wellness and reduce PTSD.