Zwischen Klinikalltag und Forschung: Eine Analyse der Arbeitsbelastung und Rahmenbedingungen wissenschaftlicher Tätigkeiten von Neurochirurginnen und Neurochirurgen in Deutschland

Reconciling patient care and scientific activites (SA) presents physicians with major challenges. According to an Germany-wide survey, more than 60% of neurosurgeons work between 60 and 80 hours a week. One reason for dissatisfaction is the lack of opportunity to conduct research. As part of a survey conditions of SA were examined. The aim of the study is to identify barriers and discuss approaches for improving working and research conditions.

We conducted an anonymous survey at two university hospitals in Germany.

So far, 20 neurosurgeons have taken part in the survey. The majority of respondents were residents (60%). In terms of academic background, 70% had achieved a doctorate or habilitation. 35% had already been scientifically active for more than ten years. 90% of the participants stated that they are currently scientifically active.

25% had published more than 15 first or last authorships to date, while 40% had published up to five papers. Most of the respondents (50%) invest 1-5 hours per week in research, 30% stated that they invest even 6-10 hours. 65% stated that they do over 70% of their SA in their free time. The majority of them (45%) do all of their research in their free time. 75% stated that they have taken vacation to conduct SA. For the majority (75 %), SA were either poorly integrated or not integrated at all into their daily work. 80% perceived SA as a burden and negative in terms of work-life balance. Nevertheless, 60% stated that conducting science improves their personal satisfaction.

While 47.4% positively emphasized mentoring or collaboration with experienced researchers, 47.4% stated that they did not receive specific support. Financial issues also play a role for 55%.

35% of the respondents stated that patient care is negatively affected by SA. 75% stated that their clinical skills have improved as a result of their SA. On the other hand, 15% stated that the clinical skills of their colleagues who conduct research are poorer than of those who do not. Most respondents stated that SA have no influence on their training in the OR (60%).

The survey highlights challenges in integrating SA into the clinical routine. Despite these obstacles, many physicians value the personal satisfaction gained through scientific engagement, which reflects the high motivation of the surveyed neurosurgeons and thus great potential. The survey is to be conducted throughout Germany by the time of the annual conference.