Quality of life of veterinary residents in AVMA-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organizations using the WHOQOL-BREF instrument

Abstract

Objective To assess whether there is an association between veterinary specialty and the quality of life of residents in AVMA-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organizations™ using the WHOQOL-BREF instrument. Methods This cross-sectional study used an online survey and data collection service for administration of the survey to veterinary residents during April 2021 to June 2021. Veterinary residents were contacted through their respective AVMA-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organization™ and through social media. Overall quality of life along with the domains of Physical Health, Psychological Health, Social Relationships, and Environment were measured using the WHOQOL-BREF instrument. Additionally, data on the demographics of participants were collected and investigated as potential confounders. Mean standardized scores (0 to 100) were compared among the specialties using the general linear model. Results 792 residents from 21 veterinary specialties were included in the analysis. The results showed that overall quality of life and all four domains varied significantly among specialties after adjusting for significant demographic variables (all Ps < 0.001). The mean standardized overall quality of life score was 54.3, ranging from 31.8 in Emergency and Critical Care to 56.3 in Laboratory Animal. The mean standardized quality of life scores were lowest for Psychological Health (50.3), followed by Social Relationships (55.0), Environment (61.4), and Physical Health (62.6). Residents in Emergency and Critical Care had the lowest adjusted average scores in all quality of life domains. Residents in Internal Medicine, Anesthesia and Analgesia, and Surgeons had lower quality of life scores across several domains when compared to other specialties. Clinical relevance This study provides insight into the mental health and general well-being of veterinary residents. The results can assist veterinary specialty organizations, universities, and mentors in developing appropriate supporting programs for residents. The results can also assist residents in recognizing and more efficiently caring for their individual mental health and well-being.