That number was down from 72.2 percent in 2020. Additionally, physician professional fulfillment scores dropped from 40 percent in 2020 to 22.4 percent in 2021.
With physician burnout rates at an all-time high, here are six ways for leaders to bring satisfaction back to the practice, per the AMA:
1. Build a resilient health system. Address systemic drivers of burnout by focusing on employee well-being, using physician feedback to drive changes and tracking progress.
2. Measure your staff’s well-being. Perform burnout assessments focusing on organizational culture, efficiency and individual self-care.
3. Help physicians cut their inbox volume. Physicians saw a 57 percent increase in digital mail during the pandemic, and that volume has not decreased. Help find ways for physicians to cut back on inbox volume.
4. Gain insight. Look into studies that will help to understand your organization, or look into hiring a chief wellness officer.
5. Improve organizational culture. Employ interventions to improve organizational culture, including prioritizing colleague connections and improved local leadership.
6. Focus on joy in medicine. Help physicians to see the everyday joy and meaning in their profession.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.
