Watch our interview with Professor Jo Yarker, who is leading the MPS Foundation funded project Thriving at work - Identifying and managing work-related risks to health and wellbeing for healthcare professionals working in private practice.
Watch the full interview and learn how you can get involved in the research here.
Estimated read time: 8 mins
The ‘Thrive at Work’ research project, led by Affinity Health at Work, will conduct in-depth interviews with clinicians working in the private sector to understand the work-related risks to mental health and wellbeing, and strategies used to address these.
A survey will also be conducted, based on the priorities identified in the interviews, established measures of the work environment, health and wellbeing outcomes, and self-related performance outcomes. Questions will consider awareness and acceptability of strategies, and interventions to support mental health at work.
The research will result in the development of a range of resources and interventions, including downloadable guidance and short-form videos, to support clinicians in identifying work-related risks, and taking preventative and supportive action.
Dr Jo Yarker, Managing Partner at Affinity Health at Work, said: “We are pleased to announce the launch of our research into mental health and wellbeing in private practice, supported by the MPS Foundation.
“Research into the wellbeing of healthcare professionals is often focused on the public sector and does not capture the nuances of working in the private sector – for example, running a profitable business, different governance structures, and different patient demands when delivering a paid-for service. Private settings are also typically smaller than their public counterparts and may have fewer support services available to clinicians.
“Our project aims to identify aspects of the work environment that are considered most stressful, and target interventions and resources that help clinicians understand their personal work-related risks and develop skills to manage these risks. This will ultimately support their mental health and help healthcare professionals thrive in their work.”
The Medical Protection Society (MPS) launched the MPS Foundation in 2022. Now in its third year, it has already supported over 30 research projects from across the world.
For more information on the grant programme and the research that has been funded, please visit www.thempsfoundation.org
Clinicians working in private practice who would like to take part in the Affinity Health at Work project, via an interview or survey, can register their interest at: www.affinityhealthatwork.com
Affinity Health at Work was founded in 2006 to bring together cutting edge research with practical, real-world approaches for work, health and wellbeing. Our mission is to improve the working lives of all. Working together to promote productive, healthy working lives – Affinity Health at Work