Meaning of Work, Burnout and Career Choice Regret: COVID-19 and Healthcare Workers in Malta

Abstract

Leading the country through a pandemic meant struggles and challenges for health care workers in Malta. This study explored how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the meaning of work of healthcare workers, and the incidence of burnout and career choice regret due to the increased job demands. Using a mixed methodology, results showed that meaning of work served as a barrier to some elements of burnout and career choice regret. The buffering effect of meaning of work was strengthened in the face of the increased demands. Therefore, improvements in different aspects of the healthcare system are needed to ensure wellbeing of healthcare workers.