Physician burnout is a pervasive issue in the healthcare industry, with far-reaching
consequences for both healthcare providers and their patients. In 2023, this problem continues
to grow, and understanding its causes, prevalence, and potential solutions is more critical than
ever. This article explores the current state of physician burnout based on the information
provided by Medscape’s 2023 report.
Defining Physician Burnout
Physician burnout is a long-term stress reaction that leads healthcare providers to lose
satisfaction and a sense of efficacy in their work. Psychologist Christina Maslach initially defined
three diagnostic symptoms of physician burnout in the 1970s:
1. Exhaustion: Physicians experience emotional and physical fatigue, often wondering
how long they can continue their demanding work.
2. Compassion Fatigue: Frustration with patients and families, coupled with feelings of
disrespect, can make physicians think,”I can’t believe they talked to me that way.”
3. Lack of Efficacy: Doubts arise about the impact of their work, leading physicians to
question, “What’s the use?”
These symptoms manifest emotionally, physically, or behaviorally, often resulting in decreased
interest in work, persistent fatigue, and withdrawal from social and community engagement.
Seeking help, both for individuals and organizations, is crucial in addressing burnout.
The State of Physician Burnout in 2023: Medscape’s Report
Medscape’s 2023 physician burnout and depression report, based on a survey of 9,175 US-
based physicians across 29 specialties, offers insights into the current situation. Here are seven
key facts about physician burnout in 2023:
1. Prevalence: In 2023, 53% of physicians reported experiencing burnout, a significant
increase from 42% in 2018. This number has risen, even beyond pre-pandemic levels.
2. Depression: In the same survey, 23% of physicians admitted to feeling depressed, an
increase from 15% in 2018. Notably, 24% of those with depression experienced clinical
depression, while the remainder reported feeling down or sad.
3. Gender Disparities: Burnout disproportionately affects female physicians, with 63% of
women experiencing it compared to 46% of men. Factors contributing to this
discrepancy include mistreatment, which has been linked to race- and gender-based
microaggressions in healthcare.
4. Work Settings: Burnout varies by work setting. Physicians in outpatient clinics and
office-based multispecialty group practices reported the highest burnout rates (57%),
followed closely by those in hospitals (55%). Conversely, only 43% of physicians in
office-based solo practices reported burnout. Self-employed physicians enjoy autonomy
and control over their work, which contributes to their lower burnout rates.
5. Common Causes: Physician burnout is typically attributed to three main factors:
excessive bureaucratic tasks, a lack of respect from coworkers, and long working hours.
Other contributors include inadequate compensation, lack of autonomy, electronic health
records (EHRs), and a lack of respect from patients.
6. EHRs and Documentation: While EHRs are not the primary cause of burnout, they play
a role in physician dissatisfaction. Physicians spend an average of nearly 10 hours per
week on EHR documentation, with many believing that EHRs contribute to burnout.
7. Professional Help: Despite over half of physicians experiencing burnout, only 13%
have sought professional help. Many physicians believe they can manage the issue on
their own.
Addressing Physician Burnout
To combat physician burnout, individuals and healthcare organizations can learn from effective
coping mechanisms and solutions:
Coping Mechanisms:
Healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, talking with family and friends, adequate sleep, and spending time alone, are essential in managing burnout.
Unhealthy coping mechanisms, like junk food, binge eating, or alcohol, should be avoided.
Workplace Measures:
Increasing compensation, implementing more manageable work schedules, and providing additional support staff can significantly alleviate burnout.
There is growing discussion about the potential benefits of physician unions as a way to address healthcare management’s attention to physician challenges. In the Medscape
report, half of the respondents believed a union could help combat burnout.
Workplace Programs:
Nearly half of survey respondents noted that their workplaces offer programs to reduce
stress or burnout. However, it remains uncertain whether these programs effectively
reduce burnout, as one study found no significant differences in clinical markers of
health, healthcare spending, absenteeism, or job performance.
The challenges posed by physician burnout are significant and can impact both physicians and
their communities. If you are a medical professional facing burnout, the connection to the
solution lies in embracing effective strategies to reignite your passion for medicine.
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