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Long hours lead to physician burnout

Healthcare Strategist Trend Watch, May 11, 2007

Unpredictable or uncontrolled work hours are large contributors to physician burnout, says a survey by University of Michigan Health. While both male and female practitioners say they are highly satisfied with their careers and levels of personal accomplishment, they report being only moderately satisfied with their work-life balance and emotional resilience, two items that are directly related to work hours.

The survey shows doctors whose hours are limited each week are more satisfied with their careers and say they are more emotionally resilient. They also are more confident in their accomplishments. The current generation of professionals places a higher value on time off, a more balanced lifestyle, and a selection of specialties that allows them to pursue both, the study says.

In April, University of Michigan doctors reported the results of the survey, taken by a random selection of internists, pediatricians, general surgeons, family practitioners, and obstetrician-gynecologists. There were 935 responses.

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