Disease Burden of Occupational Contact Dermatitis and Its Impact on Workforce Outcomes Among Health Care Workers: A Statewide Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract: Background: Occupational contact dermatitis is highly prevalent among health care workers and contributes to physical, emotional, and functional burdens that may impair their ability to deliver safe, high-quality care. Yet US data on disease burden and its workforce implications remain limited. Objective: To assess the burden of occupational contact dermatitis and examine its association with job performance, including burnout, job satisfaction, intent to leave, and quality of care. Methods: A cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted among actively licensed health care workers in Florida. A total of 1058 respondents with relevant skin symptoms were included. Disease burden was measured using components of the Standard Dermatology Outcomes Measure, and multivariate regression models assessed associations with workforce outcomes. Results: Participants reported moderate itch, mild pain, and emotional and functional impairment. Over one-quarter reported negative effects on quality of care, 39% reported burnout, and 17% planned to leave within a year. Higher disease burden, including symptoms, emotional distress, and functional limitations, was significantly associated with lower job satisfaction, greater burnout, poorer perceived quality of care, and higher turnover intentions. Conclusions: Occupational contact dermatitis poses important workforce risks. Prevention, skin health promotion, and early intervention are essential to support health care worker well-being and retention.