With nearly half of physicians experiencing burnout, addressing their mental and emotional well-being has become a priority for healthcare organizations. Physician burnout peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 2021 survey showing 62.8% of doctors experiencing symptoms. While this dropped to 48.2% in 2023, the issue remains significant.
A recent webinar featuring wellness experts, including Dr. Thomas Campbell, Dr. Amy Jibilian, and Jim Gilligan, highlighted three crucial approaches to fostering physician wellness:
1. Encouraging Physicians to Seek Help
A very first step will be to work on reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. Fear of judgment and professional repercussions discourages many doctors from reaching out. Removing the mental health questions from licensing and credentialing forms, as promoted by the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, will make all the difference.
Cultural change within the profession is also essential. The long-standing perception that physicians must be emotionally and mentally invulnerable creates internal barriers to seeking help. Leadership in healthcare organizations can counter this by normalizing vulnerability and openly discussing personal challenges like mental health struggles or addiction.
Confidentiality is another critical factor. Doctors are often hesitant to use employee assistance programs due to privacy concerns. Partnering with external organizations to offer confidential mental health resources can address this issue effectively.
2. Promoting Physician Health
Creating dedicated well-being structures, such as committees or appointing a Chief Wellness Officer, emphasizes the importance of physician health within organizations. For instance, Allegheny Health Network follows the Stanford Model of Professional Fulfillment, focusing on three pillars: a culture of wellness, efficiency in practice, and personal resilience.
Physicians should also prioritize self-care. While doctors often place patients and families first, maintaining their health through proper nutrition, sleep, and taking breaks is essential. Organizations should encourage these practices and support physicians in taking time off when needed.
3. Recognizing and Valuing Physicians
Feeling valued can significantly reduce burnout in physicians. Organisations should establish both formal and informal systems to appreciate their doctors. Formal events like awards ceremonies and informal daily recognition by team leaders help form the right atmosphere.
Engagement is equally important. Physicians should have opportunities to share their input and feel heard in shaping the direction of their organizations. Regular listening sessions and feedback channels can foster this sense of inclusion.
Leadership training is another vital element, teaching senior leaders to create environments of psychological safety. By acknowledging their own imperfections and actively listening, leaders can build trust and ensure a supportive workplace for physicians.
Moving Forward
Lastly, it’s about creating a culture of promoting physician wellness that does not only prevent burnout but encompasses the health and happiness of healthcare providers. Helping to promote help-seeking behavior, making physician health a top priority, and showing appreciation for doctors all can contribute to a more resilient and fulfilled medical workforce.
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