The following is a summary of “Well-Being and Professional Fulfillment in Mohs Surgeons: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed-Method Design Study,” published in the July 2023 issue of the Dermatologic Surgery by Lam et al.

Data evaluate specific aspects of Mohs surgeons’ well-being and professional fulfillment. To identify factors that contribute to occupational distress and those that promote well-being and professional satisfaction among Mohs surgeons. This is a sequential mixed-methods study employing semistructured individual interviews for an explanation. Based on an independent analysis of the interview transcripts’ classification, common contributors to physician happiness and satisfaction were identified. 

This study reveals the following qualitative themes: gratitude for the chosen profession and relationships, unrealistic standards of perfection that may have contributed to past career success but are unattainable and create an emotional burden, and the ability to practice in a manner consistent with personal values promotes professional satisfaction. 

This study suggests that gratitude, self-compassion, and the capacity to practice by one’s values enhance Mohs surgeons’ well-being and professional fulfillment. Notably, the researchers discovered that unrealistic standards of perfection and inconsistencies between personal and organizational practices contribute to exhaustion.

Source: journals.lww.com/dermatologicsurgery/Abstract/2023/07000/Well_Being_and_Professional_Fulfillment_in_Mohs.3.aspx