Physician burnout and impact of policy

Abstract

Physician burnout, characterized by exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced satisfaction, is an important and increasingly discussed issue. It has an impact across all specialties, with highest rates among surgery, neurology and other high-demand specialties. Risk factors for this epidemic are diverse and are seen as early as medical school. The impact of burnout is being noted in various studies in both physician personal lives and well-being, and quality of patient care. It is clear that this is an issue that needs to be addressed, and mitigation strategies are important at individual, institution and government level to optimize patient care, maintain the physician work force and protect physician well being.