Physicians Less Optimistic About Public Health
Frustration high, but signs of resilience
March 1, 2023 2 minutes read
Burning the candle at both ends is catching up with physicians, some of whom expressed frustration with the way their medical facilities are addressing burnout, according to the results of a new survey.1
Researchers polled 500 physicians between Nov. 18, 2022 and Dec 7, 2022, to address stress and what their medical institutions are doing to help them. In open-ended comments, a 48-year-old community-based surgeon stated, “Organization claims to prioritize well-being. However, does not take actions to streamline administrative demands on time, does not arrange for appropriate staffing to prevent need for working overtime to cover clinical duties, and has been ineffective in staff retention, which leads to further dissatisfaction.”
A 47-year-old community cardiologist noted, “I do not think my employer or physicians’ societies help burnout. I think the whole system needs to be overhauled and that doctors only practice medicine and not worry about extensive documentation.”
In comparison to the 2020 survey, key indicators were worsening on these statements:
- “I currently find my profession extremely rewarding”: 30%, down from 45% on prior survey;
- “I feel appreciated for my work”: 25%, down from 39%;
- “I would encourage my child (or family members) to pursue my career”: 16%, down from 30%;
- “I am optimistic about the state of public health in the U.S.”: 6%, down from 17%;
- “I am frustrated by the pressure put on healthcare professionals in today’s world”: 70%, up from 47%;
- “I know at least one colleague who is leaving (or has left) clinical care because of burnout in the last 18 months”: 55%, up from 41%.
The top solutions cited by the respondents were increased support staff, reduced patient volume, half days/mandatory vacation time, increased physician staffing, counseling/psychological support, and additional electronic medical record support and training.
Despite this, physicians are showing some resiliency. Asked if their mental health has suffered in the last 18 months, 32% said yes, up only 2% from the previous survey.
REFERENCE
- InCrowd. US physician feelings on burnout 2022. Dec 15, 2022.
Burning the candle at both ends is catching up with physicians, some of whom expressed frustration with the way their medical facilities are addressing burnout, according to the results of a new survey.
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