A randomized clinical trial assessed the impact of smartwatch usage on burnout among physicians over six months, revealing that those who used smartwatches reported significantly lower burnout rates and higher resilience compared to non-users. The study, spanning from June 2023 to June 2024 across two US academic medical centers, involved 184 physicians, including residents and attending physicians. The intervention group exhibited a 54% reduction in burnout odds and maintained high adherence to smartwatch usage, averaging 76% daily. Although resilience and well-being metrics at baseline were similar across both groups, findings suggest potential benefits of incorporating wearable technology in managing physician burnout.

Source: JAMA Network Open