Finding ways to deal with burn out due to work stress is important, especially for healthcare providers. At a panel discussion at Medscape’s New York City headquarters, participants reported EHR as one primary cause of work-based stress. In addition, higher patient quotas, changing insurance reimbursements, and simply listening to patients in stress were also cited as causes. Medscape’s recent lifestyle survey of 16,000 physicians across 25 specialties noted stress levels (burn-out) reported at up to 55% for some specialties.
Is there a way to combat the potential for burnout in a healthcare career? Panel participants identified taking the time to find the joys in practice such as appreciation from patients, relieving pain, and making the world a better place as a good way to begin relieving stress. Additionally, making time to play, taking time to enjoy family and friends, and distancing oneself from normal work routines were also suggested as highly necessary in medical practice lifestyle.