Neurocognitive Effects of Prolonged Virtual Consultation (Zoom Fatigue) in Clinicians
Saim Mahmood Khan, Hassan Saleem, Zahra Muskan, Saleem Faiza, Surraiya Riaz Mahmood Khan · Journal of Community Medicine and Health Solutions · 2025
With the rapid shift to telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, clinicians have faced unprecedented demands in adapting to prolonged virtual consultations. This has given rise to “Zoom fatigue,” a form of mental and emotional exhaustion associated with extended video-based interactions. While the Zoom Exhaustion and Fatigue Scale (ZEFS) has been widely applied in studies involving students and office workers, there is limited research on its relevance to clinicians. Physicians, in particular, often conduct hours of uninterrupted virtual patient care, which can potentially lead to significant neurocognitive strain. This study explores the impact of prolonged virtual consultations on clinician well-being, employing ZEFS alongside the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) to assess emotional and cognitive outcomes. Findings suggest that the increased cognitive load, reduced non-verbal communication, and digital interface stress contribute to higher levels of fatigue, anxiety, and dissatisfaction, highlighting the urgent need for systemic support and ergonomic telehealth practices. Abbreviations: ZEFS: Zoom Exhaustion and Fatigue Scale; DASS-21: Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale; SWLS: Satisfaction with Life Scale