A study of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) among 125 healthcare employees in two large hospitals in Canada found improvements in empathy and deceases in burnout following participation in the course. Empathy was measured using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index. Participants had significant improvements in the areas of empathic concern, perspective taking, and absence of personal distress. Burnout scores, measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory, also improved for personal accomplishment, emotional exhaustion, and depersonalization. In addition, the social impact of the MBSR course was evaluated, and 62% of participants noted improved interactions with colleagues, families, and/or patients. The authors conclude that “MBSR contributes to improving relationships between healthcare employees as well as between healthcare providers and their patients.”
Moll S, Frolic A, Key B. Journal of Hospital Administration 2015;4:36-46.
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