Thoracic surgery certainly affords one a better lifestyle, but it is essential to have a work-life balance as a cardiothoracic surgeon to enjoy it. Underneath the mountain of job responsibilities as a CT surgeon, this specialty suffers greatly.

But don’t worry. In today’s blog, we will discuss how you can achieve work-life balance as a cardiothoracic surgeon and enjoy life in your profession.

Factors Contributing to Poor Work Life Balance

There can be many reasons that contribute to poor work-life performance as a cardiothoracic surgeon. The list is never ending but we have listed some of them for you below.

• Long hours shifts
• Responsibilities and high stress
• No time for personal life
• Demanding surgical workload
• Professional isolation
• Emotional disturbance
• On-call requirements
• Patient demands
• Limited support system
• Lack of flexibility
• Shortness of staff

All these reasons can lead a CT surgeon to burnout. These factors affect cardiothoracic surgeons’ work productivity and quality of life.

“When work is a pleasure, life is a joy. When work is duty, life is slavery.” — Maxim Gorki

The Risk of Burnout Among Cardiothoracic Surgeons

Indeed, Cardiothoracic surgery is a highly demanding field in healthcare, but you have to work in a high-stress environment and face technical challenges. It is a prideful job, but the stress and emotional toll can lead a cardiothoracic surgeon to suffer from burnout.  The rate of burnout in cardiothoracic surgeons is increasing, and it is an overlooked challenge.

“Surgeons are at great risk for developing burnout symptoms because of long work hours, delayed career gratification, and what is admittedly not the best work-life balance.” — Thomas K. Varghese Jr., MD, MS

Several surveys and case studies have been conducted regarding burnout in Cardiothoracic surgery. The results of these surveys turned out to be alarming. A Society of Thoracic Surgeons survey in 2021 shows that 55% of the participants met the burnout criteria. In addition, the burnout in younger surgeons and education seekers was higher.

Furthermore, another case study by Chow et al. proved that the burnout rate in cardiothoracic surgeons is higher than in other specialty surgeons.

The consequences of burnout aren’t just affecting the mental health of the surgeons but also the quality of patient care. All these scenarios contribute to decreased job satisfaction and an unhappy life. The complex nature of this field promotes stress among surgeons. The high-stress environment to perform surgical procedures causes burnout in residents.

The Impact of CT Surgeon Burnout on their Jobs and Significant Others

Burnout in CT surgeons because of the poor work-life balance can have extreme effects on their lives and work as well. It can cause an increased risk of medical errors and poor patient care. Due to burnout, the surgeons may lose focus, which leads to mistakes, frustrations, and self-doubt.

The Wellness Committee of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery ( AATS) designed a wellness survey of 33 questions. They distributed it to self-disclosed spouses and significant others of AATS members and CT surgery attendees of the 2021 Annual Meeting.

The alarming results of those 238 survey participants paint a stark picture of the situation. The impact of burnout on cardiothoracic surgeons and their families is not to be underestimated. Let’s have a look at them.

• 66% believed that the stress faced by their CT surgery partner had a moderate to severe impact on their family.
• 63% believed that the work demands of their CT surgeon partner didn’t leave enough time for their family.
• 52% reported that their CT surgeon partners rarely had time for intimacy.
• 27% reported poor work-life balance, and almost a quarter (23%) reported that interactions at home were usually or mostly not good-natured.
• 42% percent would not want their CT surgeon partner to pursue a career in CT surgery if they could choose again.

The impact of these results was higher in the significant others of CT Surgeons having less than 5 years into their careers and experience working with private practice. In addition, CT surgeons work 68-74 hours per week longer than 58-60 hours per week. Having younger children, especially those under 19, and lacking work support worsened their overall well-being.

How CT Surgeons Can Achieve Work-Life Balance?

The first step towards a fulfilling career is to understand the significance of work and personal life balance. By setting time for your loved ones and yourself, you can make informed career path decisions for better overall well-being.

The patient population in CT surgery is tougher and sadder, but the lifestyle will be better if you enjoy thoracic surgery. Overall, the job can be physically and emotionally demanding, but it is also highly rewarding for those passionate about the field. So, it is important to maintain a work-life balance as a Cardiothoracic Surgeon. We have discussed some practical ways to help you reduce your work stress and have a better personal and professional life. So, let’s begin!

Schedule Working Hours

It is essential to have a work schedule to maintain your work-life balance. Make a schedule for each week or hour in a day. For instance, It depends on how many cases you can handle in a week’s rotation with other Cardiologists and how complex the case will be. You need to be alert and have plenty of rest.

If the case is challenging and complex, you need to have a backup plan to do the surgery with the help of an assistant surgeon. The better way to do the job is elective surgery. You can schedule it in an appropriate and timely manner.

You can maintain a healthy work-life balance by making a timetable of specific periods for surgeries, patient consultations, administrative tasks, and personal time. It will also help you to avoid working long hours.

Set Clear Goals

To achieve your career goals as a CT surgeon, make long-term growth plans and work on them steadily. Set clear expectations for your profession and your family.

Working on those goals and trying to sustain them will help you stay motivated. Read your job contracts and compare them with your current job responsibilities.

If you are working outside the contract, try to make things along with it. If you need to move to another city for an academic job, talking to the family will be helpful, as family flexibility is crucial. Otherwise, it can be stressful.

Get Support from Others

When you work alone or deal with many work responsibilities alone, the lack of support causes stress, burnout, and poor work-life balance. Seek help from fellow surgeons and divide your task with others. It will reduce your burden and give you some free time.

Talk to others about what you are going through or the challenges you face in your profession. Sharing your problems with others will allow you to express your emotions or dissatisfaction and help you find the best solution for your problems.

Moreover, interact with people outside the working space and working hours. It will help you have fresh perspectives, real-life experiences, and advice related to work.

Prioritize Family and Self Time

CT surgery is a demanding and time-consuming job. It leaves you with minimum time for your self-care and family. Your health and well-being are as necessary as others to keep performing your services as a cardiothoracic surgeon. For that, make time for your ME time and self-care, and focus on your own relaxation and peace. You can try meditation and spa for a calm, healing, and stress-free routine.

In addition, family time plays a vital role in healthy mental health. Go on vacations and trips with your family to have quality family time and make beautiful memories. It will help you stay happy and positive towards everything.

Outsource Administrative Tasks

One of the most helpful ways to achieve work-life balance and have some free time for yourself is to outsource your administrative tasks.  These tasks cost you the majority of your time and energy. Outsourcing your administrative tasks will reduce your work burden by less than half. You can easily focus on your patient care and your personal well-being.

Several medical billing companies in the USA are working and helping surgeons like you. With the help of professional and highly experienced staff, you will have efficient and quality outcomes. As a result, you will have all the time to spend with your family or have rest, self-care, and quality patient care.

Conclusion

“When you have balance in your life, work becomes an entirely different experience. There is a passion that moves you to a whole new level of fulfillment and gratitude, and that’s when you can do your best… for yourself and for others.” — Cara Delevingne

To sum up, you have your whole life other than work life. Work is just a part of life, not life. Learn to maintain that good work-life balance.

We hope the above-discussed causes and tips to achieve work-life balance as a Cardiothoracic Surgeon will help you in real life. You must implement these tips in your professional life. CT surgery is undoubtedly the most responsible field in healthcare, but you should be in an excellent physical and medical state to offer your services as a cardiothoracic surgeon.

Burnout happens when a person feels very tired in their mind or emotions because of too much stress for a long time. Indeed, all jobs can be stressful and exhausting sometimes, but the burnout rate in healthcare is very concerning. Each year, many health workers leave their jobs completely.

Today, we will focus on our healthcare workers. We will talk about the main reasons for burnout in healthcare and how to prevent it.

The healthcare industry is very important for our society. Workers in this field do their best to keep everyone healthy and active. However, there comes a time when they also need our help and care.

As medical business operations manager, Wyatt Butler wisely states, “In the fight against burnout, we must remember that even the strongest among us need a moment to breathe.”

This blog will explain why burnout happens in healthcare, the stages of burnout, and how to solve it. Ultimately, this is to support our important healthcare workers.

Burnout in Healthcare

Many healthcare workers have felt more tired and stressed during the pandemic. During COVID-19, health workers worked hard to take care of everyone. They faced a lot of work day and night, which led to many feeling emotionally drained and burned out.

Even after the pandemic, health workers have become ever more fatigued. This is a serious concern for all of us. It can hurt the mental health of health workers and also affect their services, which can put patient care at risk.

According to the World Health Organization, burnout is an occupational phenomenon defined as a “syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.”

Also, burnout is related to work and should not be used for personal stress or other life situations.

Burnout has three dimensions or significant symptoms.

1. The practitioner is always exhausted.
2. They have started keeping their distance from everyone and experiencing a lack of interest.
3. Their quality of work and efficiency are going down.

Stages of Burnout in Healthcare

Burnout is a whole process from which a person goes without realizing and ignoring the fact their mental health is affected. As Wyatt notes, “Burnout creeps in silently, and if we don’t pay attention, it can overshadow even our brightest moments.”

According to a study, burnout among health workers has increased from 2018 to 2022 relative to other industries.

The burnout rate among health workers increased in 2022, i.e., 46% compared to 32% in 2018, and is still increasing.

Teagan Stewart, a healthcare coding expert, emphasizes, “In our quest to care for others, we must also prioritize our own well-being; it’s not a weakness, but a necessity.”

It is necessary to address this issue now. There are five stages of burnout from which an individual goes and loses mental health. Let’s discuss them one by one below.

Honeymoon Phase

The Honeymoon Phase is full of excitement. When you start a new job, you become so excited about the job and try to perform various responsibilities or tasks to create a good image in the organization, even out of excitement.

Onset of Stress

When the honeymoon phase ends, you start to feel some work pressure. You may have committed so much earlier, and now you find it hard to meet the expectations, but try your best and avoid other thoughts. It is the onset of the stress stage. At this stage, some days are lively and quite stressful. You start losing your focus, and your excitement vanishes.

Chronic Stress

Now, you have become frustrated over the workload. Stress has become so continuous. It will affect your productivity and your commitment to meeting particular deadlines. You will become isolated from achieving your targets, and your relations with colleagues, friends, or family might be disturbed.

Burnout

This phase is when you no longer find joy in anything. You will hit your limit and maybe will have issues like a sad stomach, insomnia, and intense headaches. You may start doubting yourself and feel useless. As Butler states, “When joy fades from your work, it’s a sign that you need to pause and reflect.” Family members and friends can apparently observe the change in your behavior at this stage.

Habitual Burnout

Habitual burnout is when you leave yourself untreated, and then burnout becomes a permanent thing in your life. It can lead to anxiety and depression and can cause fatigue, either mental or physical. Teagan Stewart adds, “Ignoring the signs of burnout only leads to deeper issues; it’s crucial to seek help before it becomes a habit.” It is an alarming stage, and it can change your personality, and you will not be able to do your work or job anymore.

Causes of Burnout in Healthcare

Burnout has become a noteworthy issue in health workers, and it can significantly affect the quality of work and their mental health. Hundreds of reasons at work can cause burnout, such as lack of control or appreciation, workloads, and not meeting specific requirements. Below, we have discussed some prominent causes of burnout among health workers.

Administrative Burden

Administrative burdens are the leading cause of burnout in health workers. As Dr. Jennifer L. H. says, “Burnout is not just about being tired; it’s about feeling overwhelmed by the relentless administrative tasks that take us away from patient care.” When a health worker spends more time on administrative tasks than on taking care of patients, they feel frustrated. Doing paperwork, managing documents, and following up can be very tiring and take a lot of time and energy. Too much paperwork can make health workers forget about taking care of patients and feel unhappy with their jobs.

For example, submitting a medical claim takes a lot of time. First, you need to find the right codes. Then, you have to fill out all the documents and paperwork. Finally, you submit the claim with the correct coding and billing. Dr. Mike G. adds, “The constant demands of documentation and the pressures of electronic health records (EHR) contribute significantly to physician burnout.” This is not the end—following up or handling claim denials is challenging, especially when a healthcare worker has a lot to do already.

When a health worker has to do many different tasks, their job becomes very difficult. Each day, you see many patients. After each visit, you put the patient information into the computer, schedule their next appointment, and upload their current procedures. At some point, you will feel very tired from these heavy tasks and may experience burnout.

New Policies

The healthcare industry is always changing. New rules, procedures, and codes come out often. This can be very stressful for healthcare workers. They have to manage these changes along with their usual patient care duties.

As new diseases appear, healthcare workers need to learn new coding systems, such as CPT codes, to correctly document and bill for patient treatment. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many new codes were made just for coronavirus testing and treatment. Healthcare workers needed to learn these new codes fast while also handling the increased work during the pandemic.

Similarly, when outbreaks happen, like the Measles Outbreak of 2024, healthcare facilities quickly work to learn new rules and coding procedures. Workers need to quickly adjust to new protocols and documentation standards. This ongoing change is tiring for the healthcare facility, thus causing burnout among healthcare workers.

So the added stress of extra workload and responsibility under emergency conditions can result in burnout. Healthcare workers can only handle a limited amount of change at one time before they feel drained.

Technological Challenges

Electronic health records (EHRs) and other healthcare software were created to help healthcare workers do their jobs more easily. But many find these new technologies challenging to use. The systems are often hard to use and clunky, needing a lot of time and work to put in patient information. This can increase the already large workload of healthcare workers.

Additionally, many doctors and nurses did not grow up with this kind of technology. Baby Boomers and even Millennials can struggle to adapt to modern healthcare software. For those used to paper charting systems, the switch to EHRs can be hugely stressful. Having to learn these new skills later in their careers, while still seeing a full load of patients, leaves many feeling overwhelmed.

High Patient Expectations

Today, patients expect more from the healthcare system. Patients want good care and personal attention from their doctors. But, trying to meet these high expectations can cause a lot of stress and exhaustion for healthcare workers.

One main reason for this is the change from a fee-based care model to a value-based care model. Before, healthcare providers received payment for each patient they treated. Now, they are assessed and compensated according to the care quality they give. Healthcare providers need to spend more time with each patient to make sure they follow the quality standards of the healthcare industry.

But, when healthcare providers spend more time with each patient, they can see fewer patients in one day. This can greatly affect their financial goals because they might not earn as much money as they did with the fee-based care model.

Also, the need to keep a good image and meet patients’ needs can make healthcare workers put in more hours and work harder. This can cause stress and tiredness, as they might feel too much pressure and not appreciated.

Wyatt reflects, “In value-based care, the drive for exceptional patient outcomes can sometimes overwhelm physicians, as seen in the stress of meeting stringent performance metrics.”

To maintain a balance between providing quality care and meeting financial goals, healthcare providers may feel like they are constantly juggling competing priorities. This can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and a lack of fulfillment in their jobs.

Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS)

The Merit-based Incentive Payment System, or MIPS for short, is also a big cause of burnout in healthcare. MIPS ties doctors’ payments to how well they do on certain measures of quality, cost, and more. To get the full 9% bonus payment, doctors have to score very high. This puts tons of pressure on them.

Doctors end up spending lots of extra time on paperwork and tasks that have nothing to do with helping patients. They have to do this just to get a good MIPS score. All the focus on numbers and scores takes away from real patient care, which is what most doctors went into medicine for.

On top of that, MIPS rules are super confusing and change every year. Trying to keep up causes lots of stress and anxiety. Doctors feel like they can’t win no matter how hard they try. In the end, MIPS leads to frustration, exhaustion, and burnout. It makes doctors feel like widgets in a factory rather than real human beings.

Medicare Reimbursement Cuts

Medicare reimbursement cuts are also a major driving force behind the burnout crisis in healthcare.

You see, instead of receiving raises or bonuses, healthcare workers have actually been earning less money from insurance companies for the past five years. And get this: by 2025, their pay is expected to drop by another 2.8% compared to 2024! That’s a pretty big cut, going from $36.09 in 2020 to $32.36 in 2025 per patient they see.

Now you might be thinking, “Well, they can just see more patients then, right?” But here’s the catch – they’re already being pushed to see more patients in less time to make up for the lower payments. And doing that affects their performance scores under the MIPS.

Basically, MIPS measures the quality of care they provide, and if they rush through too many patients, their scores drop. And low MIPS scores mean even lower payments down the line. It’s a vicious cycle.

On top of that, having to cram in more patients every day takes a serious toll on their mental and physical health. They’re stretched thin, overworked, and constantly stressed out.

So you can imagine how demoralizing and demotivating it must feel for healthcare workers. They’re putting their nose to the grindstone, sacrificing their well-being, and what do they get in return? Pay cuts, year after year. It’s no wonder they end up feeling burnt out and disillusioned with their jobs.

5  Effective Ways to Manage Work Stress

We all understand that at some point, work becomes a disaster for our mental health as we lose our work-life balance, and excessive workload causes us stress that leads to burnout and further anxiety or depression. But we should know that help is available anytime, anywhere.

There are many ways to reduce stress that leads to a healthy lifestyle and healthy mind. So, let’s discuss a few of them and make sure to implement them in your daily routine.

1). Exercising

As a healthcare provider, it is important to prioritize your own health and well-being, especially when dealing with the daily stressors of the job. One of the best practices to keep yourself healthy, happy, and motivated is through exercising.

In fact, according to a university survey of 185 students, doing physical activity twice a week helps in managing stress. This could include anything from going for a jog, hitting the gym, or even taking a yoga class.

In addition to managing stress levels, exercising and other physical activities can also result in good, healthy sleep, which is essential for healthcare providers who need to be well-rested and alert on the job.

But why stop at just exercising? Combining physical activity with mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation can help your mind think positively and relax your muscles. And don’t underestimate the power of a simple morning walk – even just 15 minutes can leave you with fresh thoughts and offer a fresh start to your day.

2). Outsourcing your Work

In today’s fast-paced world, working smarter, not harder, is the key to success. When you hire someone else to handle your administrative work, like medical billing, coding, accounting, managing revenue, and submitting claims, you can save important time and energy. This allows you to focus on what is really important – giving great care to your patients.

Partnering with a good medical billing company can make a big difference. These professionals know their work well. They are committed to making sure your administrative tasks are done quickly and correctly. When you outsource these tasks, you can make your work easier and feel less stress.

One main benefit of outsourcing is that it helps you get back your time. Rather than spending many hours on administrative tasks, you can use that important time for your health, continuing education, or just taking a needed break. This new balance can help stop burnout and support a healthier, more lasting work-life situation.

Also, outsourcing agencies focus on keeping high efficiency and quality. They use teams of skilled workers who know the latest rules and best ways to do things in the industry. They have the skills and resources to handle your administrative tasks well.

Outsourcing does not have to be very expensive, despite what many people think. Many trusted agencies provide affordable services, so you can enjoy the advantages of outsourcing without hurting your budget.

3). Seeking Counseling

Getting counseling is a great way to fight burnout and get back your love for healing. Rather than isolating yourself, talk to coworkers who understand what you are going through. Dividing duties more evenly, changing schedules for personal time, and discussing frustrations can help a lot.

You might not want to show your feelings or say that you are struggling. But the hallmark of a great healthcare provider is recognizing when they need care too. Counseling helps you deal with difficult experiences, handle worries, and regain perspective. You need to take care of yourself sometimes if you want to help others.

Take care of yourself by seeking counseling now. This can help you avoid burnout that can harm your health and job. Your coworkers and patients rely on you to perform well. Asking for help shows bravery and smart thinking. It will help you keep giving great, caring support while also taking care of yourself.

4). Having Enough Sleep

Not getting enough sleep can make the high stress levels that healthcare workers feel even worse. If you do not get enough rest, your mind has a hard time recovering. You may start to overthink things, and your health can get worse. Doctors say adults should sleep 6 to 8 hours each night for good health and brain function. There are several effective ways healthcare workers can promote sufficient sleep:

First, make a space that is good for sleeping. Dim the lights, play calm music, turn off electronic devices, and make sure the bedroom is quiet, cool, and cozy. This tells the brain and body that it is time to relax and rest.

Next, create a regular routine before bed. This can include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or doing some light stretches. These activities help you move from being awake to sleeping. Do not do things that make you excited, like exercising, working, or using screens, right before you go to sleep.

In addition, mindfulness activities such as meditation or deep breathing can help lower stress and calm busy thoughts. Doing these during the day or before sleep can reduce stress and racing thoughts that disrupt sleep. Other lifestyle habits, such as exercising regularly, getting sunlight, drinking less caffeine, and eating healthy foods, also help improve sleep quality.

5). Taking a Break

Excessive work and the same robotic routine for days make you exhausted and frustrated. In that case, a short vacation to the beach, mountains, island, or anywhere you like can help.

Take your annual leaves and plan a tour with your family or friends to have some quality time with loved ones. It will definitely help you start fresh with a positive mind set.

On a lighter note, if dealing with chatty patients makes you want to hide in the supply closet, perhaps a career in radiology is more your speed. Because it’s a place where you can avoid patient interaction and spend your days reading x-rays in a dark room.

Well, jokes aside. Let’s be honest.

Being a doctor is a noble profession, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Long hours, complex cases, and the emotional weight of caring for others can take a toll on your mental and physical well being.

According to a survey, physicians are almost twice as likely (40.2% to 23.2%) to be dissatisfied with their work-life balance than the average working American adult.

This might result in energy depletion, leading to a significant decrease in your ability to treat your patients or sometimes even worse – resulting in feelings of resentment and hatred towards the very people you swore to help.

Reasons why a doctor might start hating his patients

So, why do you think a physician might start feeling anger, annoyance, and bitterness towards their patients?

Here are some common culprits:

➜ Compassion fatigue

One of the primary factors why you might start feeling exhausted towards patients is the constant exposure to suffering. Being exposed to extreme or severe issues and traumas can leave you emotionally drained.

The National Library of Medicine reports that compassion fatigue among healthcare providers varies from 7.3% to 40%.

➜ Feeling disrespected

Dealing with demanding patients can be frustrating. This could be another major reason for physicians to feel resentment towards their patients. No one has the tolerance for being disrespected and continuously facing such behavior can make the doctors feel annoyed and hateful.

➜ Systemic burnout

Administrative tasks are adding too much a burden to a physician’s emotional, physical, and mental health. Tedious paperwork , long workweeks, and lack of control can leave you feeling burnt out and depleted on top of everything else.

➜ Moral distress

Witnessing situations where you can’t provide the care you believe a patient deserves can be disheartening. The attempt to uphold ethics is a struggle in itself that can sometimes lead providers feeling powerless to take an appropriate action when treating a patient.

What to do when you start hating your patients?

It’s important to identify, acknowledge, and reflect on the above mentioned feelings. Ignoring them can lead to uncertainty, confusion, detachment, depression, and ultimately, a negative impact on your patients and your own well-being.

The good news?

You are not alone and these feelings don’t have to be your reality. Here are some actionable steps to reignite the passion that brought you to medicine in the first place:

1). Reconnect with your “why”

Remember why you went into medicine.

Was it the desire to alleviate suffering? The fascination with the human body? Revisit your initial motivations.

You can jot down a few moments that strengthened your desire to become a doctor. Was it a childhood experience, a mentor’s guidance, or or witnessing a medical breakthrough?

Post these reminders somewhere you can see them daily.

2). Set boundaries. It’s OK to say NO

Don’t be afraid to say no to unreasonable demands or take some time for yourself. A well-rested human is a better human.

Figure out your limits. Setting boundaries can raise your productivity, increase self-awareness, develop work ethics, and reduce stress and burnout.

Be honest with yourself and communicate these boundaries clearly with colleagues and patients. Explain that it allows you to be more present and provide better care when you are at work.

3). Focus on the wins, big and small

Even on difficult days, take a moment to savor the positive outcomes. Before leaving work, take a few minutes to reflect on the day’s successes.

Go through the day with a brief reflection. Did you help someone manage their pain actively? Did you educate a patient about preventative care? Celebrate these victories. no matter how small.

Consider keeping a gratitude journal specifically focused on patient interactions. This can help reframe negative experiences and highlight the positive impact you have created in your surroundings.

4). Find and build your support system

Lean on your tribe, talk to your friends and colleagues, mentors, or therapists. Sharing your struggles and experiences can be cathartic and lead to helpful but practical advice.

Consider joining a support group for healthcare professionals that can help you significantly with practical advice.

Look for online or in-person support groups specifically for healthcare professionals. Sharing experiences and connecting with friends, family and peers will never disappoint you.

Here’s how you can build your support system

• Seek a trusted colleague and discuss the matter at hand
• Talk to a friend, mentor, or therapist
• Join support groups for some practical suggestions

5). Practice self-care

As the saying goes you can’t pour from an empty cup, which is true to keep your sanity for personal as well as in professional life.

Prioritize your physical and mental health. Schedule regular exercise even if it’s just a short walk during your lunch break, eat nourishing meals that fuel your body, and prioritize sleep.

Mental well-being takes you a long way. Explore mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing exercises. Prioritize adequate sleep for optimal mental clarity and emotional resilience.

6). Seek professional help if needed

Don’t hesitate to seek therapy if you’re struggling to cope on your own. A therapist can provide tried and tested tools for managing stress, negativity, and compassion fatigue.

Studies have shown that professional support helps you seek quicker guidance and identify why you feel the way you feel. It helps you in mind shifts and changing behaviors that hold you back in certain situations.

Remember, talking about your personal issues is hard but make sure to be honest and keep an open mind to receive complete help.

7). Advocate for change

Doctors can sometimes feel weighed down by administrative tasks. If systemic issues like excessive paperwork are contributing to burnout, consider collaborating with colleagues to advocate for improvements within your practice or healthcare system.

Be part of the solution and think about the aspects of the healthcare system that contribute to the feelings of exhaustion towards your patients.

Between appointment scheduling, insurance verification, and charting, valuable time can be stolen away from what doctors are required to do – providing quality patient care. On the contrary, they start feeling frustrated and hatred towards their patients.

This is where Practice Management Software (PMS) and Electronic Health Records (EHR) come in – powerful tools that can significantly lighten the administrative load.

8). Remember the human connection

Take a moment to connect with your patients on a personal level. Hearing their stories and understanding their anxieties can help you rekindle the empathy that drew you to medicine in the first place.

Focus on shared decision-making and patient education. When patients understand their conditions and treatment options, they’ve more receptive attitude towards the treatment options.

Rekindle human connection with your patients by:

• Actively listening
• Empowering your patients by making them feel heard, seen, and comfortable
• Putting yourself in their shoes and show empathy

Lastly, being a doctor is a calling but it’s not always sunshine and roses. However, by identifying your challenges, taking steps to overcome them, and focusing on self-care, you can reclaim the passion that led you to this path and continue to provide the compassionate care your patients deserve without feeling the emotions of hatred.

So, be kind to yourself, seek support, and remember the incredible impact you have on people’s lives.

Conclusion

➜ Reasons why a doctor might start hating his patients?

Compassion fatigue, feeling disrespected and underappreciated, systemic burnout, and moral distress can make doctors resent their patients.

➜ What to do when you start hating your patients?

Reconnect with your purpose for becoming a doctor. Set clear boundaries to avoid burnout. Celebrate small wins. Build a support system. Practice self-care. Seek counseling if needed. Push for change. Remember patients are human too.

While all medical fields have their challenges, some specialties offer a better work-life balance and lower stress levels.

So, if you’re looking to pursue a rewarding medical career that prioritizes your well-being, this is the right time to start. Let’s explore some of the specialties known as the lowest burnout medical specialties.

“6-7% of American physicians leave their healthcare practices every year due to physician burnout, and this turnover rate continues to rise.”

The Least Burnout Medical Specialties

Here’s the scoop on some of the least stressful medical specialties for your healthcare journey.

Plastic Surgery – (37% Burnout Rate )

Plastic surgery is a medical specialty focused on the reconstruction, restoration, or alteration of the human body. It encompasses both reconstructive surgery, which repairs defects or injuries, and cosmetic surgery, which enhances appearance.

The relatively lower burnout rate among plastic surgeons might be due to the high degree of patient satisfaction, the variety of procedures, and the ability to see immediate, often life-changing results from their work. Additionally, plastic surgeons often have more control over their schedules and patient load.

Ophthalmology – (39% Burnout Rate)

Ophthalmology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Ophthalmologists perform eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, and conduct surgeries such as cataract removal and vision correction procedures.

The specialty’s lower burnout rate could be attributed to its mix of clinical and surgical work, the generally positive outcomes for patients, and advancements in technology that make treatments less invasive and more effective. Moreover, ophthalmologists typically have regular office hours, which contributes to a better work-life balance.

Psychiatry – (39% Burnout Rate)

Psychiatry focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Psychiatrists spend significant time with patients in therapy sessions and may prescribe medications.

The field’s lower burnout rate might be due to the meaningful relationships they build with patients and the profound impact they can have on patients’ lives. Additionally, psychiatry often allows for flexible scheduling and less emergency work compared to other medical specialties.

Pathology – (41% Burnout Rate)

Pathology is the study of disease, focusing on the examination of tissues, organs, and bodily fluids to diagnose illnesses. Pathologists play a crucial role in patient care by providing diagnostic information that guides treatment decisions.

The specialty’s lower burnout rate may stem from its structured work environment, less direct patient interaction, and a balanced workload. Pathologists often work regular hours and have fewer emergency cases, contributing to a more predictable work-life balance.

Otolaryngology – (43% Burnout Rate)

Otolaryngology, also known as ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) medicine, involves the treatment of conditions related to the head and neck. This includes surgeries for sinus issues, throat problems, and hearing loss. Otolaryngologists enjoy a mix of surgical and clinical work and often see significant improvements in patients’ quality of life.

The relatively low burnout rate in this specialty might be due to the diversity of cases and procedures, along with generally good patient outcomes.

Orthopedics – (44% Burnout Rate)

Orthopedics is the branch of medicine dealing with the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons treat injuries and diseases affecting bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

The specialty’s lower burnout rate can be attributed to the high success rates of orthopedic procedures, the ability to restore function and mobility to patients, and a mix of surgical and non-surgical treatments. Orthopedic surgeons often report high job satisfaction due to the tangible improvements they can provide to patients’ lives.

Neurology – (44% Burnout Rate)

Neurology is the study and treatment of disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neurologists diagnose and treat conditions like epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and migraines.

The field’s lower burnout rate may result from the intellectual challenge of diagnosing complex conditions and the advancements in neurological research and treatments that offer new hope for patients. Neurologists often work in outpatient settings, which can provide a more regular schedule.

Diabetes & Endocrinology – (44% Burnout Rate)

Endocrinology focuses on the endocrine system and the treatment of hormone-related disorders, including diabetes, thyroid diseases, and metabolic disorders. Endocrinologists help manage chronic conditions that require ongoing care and lifestyle changes.

The specialty’s lower burnout rate could be due to the long-term relationships they build with patients, the ability to see the positive impact of their treatments over time, and typically regular working hours.

General Surgery – (45% Burnout Rate)

General surgery involves a wide range of procedures to treat various conditions affecting almost any part of the body. Surgeons perform operations to remove tumors, repair injuries, and correct deformities.

The lower burnout rate in surgery may be due to the high level of skill and precision required, the immediate results from surgical interventions, and the lifesaving nature of their work. Surgeons often report high job satisfaction from successfully treating complex cases.

The Most Burnt-Out Physician Specialties

According to 2024 Medscape survey specialties with the highest rates of burnout are:

• Emergency medicine (63%)
• Ob/Gyn (53%)
• Oncology (53%)
• Pediatrics (51%)
• Family medicine (51%)
• Radiology (51%)
• Pulmonary medicine (50%)
• Anesthesiology (50%)
• Gastroenterology (50%)
• Internal medicine (50%)

The Top 5 Highest Paying Physician Specialties with The Lowest Burnout Rates

Along with work-life balance, financial security matters too.

Here’s a breakdown of some high-paying specialties known for lower burnout rates, based on data from Medscape’s Physician Burnout & Depression Report 2023 and salary information from Medscape Physician Compensation Report 2024.

1. Orthopedics – (Avg. Salary: $511,000)

Why it’s a good fit

Orthopedic is a combo of intellectual challenge and hands-on procedures. You’ll diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues, from bone fractures to sports injuries. The predictable schedule and the satisfaction of seeing patients recover can be very rewarding.

Downsides to consider

The physical demands of the job, including long surgeries, can be challenging. Additionally, malpractice insurance can be expensive in this field.

2. Plastic Surgery – (Avg. Salary: $506,000)

Why it’s a good fit

Plastic surgeons perform both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. This field allows for more control over schedules and potentially higher job satisfaction. You’ll use your artistic skills and surgical expertise to improve patient’s lives.

Downsides to consider

The training pathway for plastic surgery is long and demanding. Additionally, there can be pressure to maintain a perfect aesthetic outcome, which can be stressful.

3. Cardiology – (Avg. Salary: $459,000)

Why it’s a good fit

Cardiologists diagnose and treat heart conditions, playing an important role in saving lives. The field offers a good balance between procedures like cardiac catheterizations and managing patients with chronic heart conditions. Advancements in technology are also streamlining some aspects of cardiology, potentially reducing stress.

Downsides to consider

Cardiology can be demanding, with long hours and potential for on-call emergencies. Dealing with complex cases and critical situations can also be stressful.

4. Urology – (Avg. Salary: $454,000)

Why it’s a good fit

Urologists address urinary tract and reproductive issues. The field is a blend of procedures like cystoscopy and clinic work, allowing you to develop both technical and interpersonal skills. You’ll help patients manage chronic conditions and address acute issues.

Downsides to consider

While on-call duties exist, they are not as frequent as some other specialties. However, urology can involve complex surgeries and dealing with sensitive topics, which can be stressful for some.

5. Ophthalmology – (Avg. Salary: $438,000)

Why it’s a good fit

Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat eye conditions, from nearsightedness to cataracts. The field offers a blend of clinical work and surgery, often with predictable schedules and the focus on improving patient’s vision, leading to high satisfaction rates.

Downsides to consider

The job can be detail-oriented and require a high level of precision, which may be stressful for some. Additionally, advancements in technology may impact the demand for some traditional ophthalmic procedures in the future.

How to Determine Burnout Rate?

Determining burnout rates in healthcare professions typically involves a combination of surveys and data analysis.

Surveys + Data Analysis = Burnout Rate Determination

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

➜ Standardized Surveys

Physicians participate in surveys designed to measure burnout rate . These surveys often use established tools like the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which assesses factors like emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and professional efficacy.

➜ Data Collection

Survey responses are collected and analyzed to calculate burnout percentages within a specific healthcare specialty or across the entire medical field.

➜ Additional Data Sources

Some studies might incorporate data on factors like workload, work hours, and access to mental health resources to understand potential contributors to burnout rates.

How Healthcare Practices Can Combat Burnout Rate?

Physician burnout is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences. Exhausted doctors not only experience personal suffering but can also deliver less optimal patient care.

Healthcare practices can implement proactive strategies to create a culture of well-being and combat burnout:

Prioritizing Work-Life Balance

• Implement flexible scheduling options like part-time work, job-sharing, or compressed workweeks to accommodate physicians  personal needs.
• Encourage adequate use of vacation time and offer mental health days to promote rejuvenation.
• Distribute on-call duties fairly among all physicians and consider night float systems to reduce individual burdens.

Develop Supportive Environment

• Healthcare practices should cultivate a leadership style that prioritizes open communication, collaboration, and respect for physician autonomy.
• Establish mentorship programs to connect experienced professionals with new doctors, offering guidance and support.
• Promote teamwork by fostering collaboration among physicians, nurses, and other staff to distribute workload and create a culture of shared responsibility.

Addressing Administrative Burdens

• Advocate for user-friendly EHR systems that minimize administrative time and workload.
• Consider hiring dedicated support staff to handle administrative tasks like billing and coding, freeing up physicians for patient care.
• Regularly review and streamline workflows to eliminate unnecessary administrative burdens.

Investing in Mental Health Resources

• Provide confidential mental health support services through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or in-house resources.
• Offer workshops or programs on stress management techniques for physicians  like meditation or yoga.
• Encourage open communication about mental health concerns and normalize seeking help when needed.

Recognizing and Rewarding Excellence

• Focus on meaningful feedback and recognition of achievements during performance reviews.
• Offer competitive compensation and benefits that demonstrate value for physician well-being and lifestyle.
• Publicly acknowledge and celebrate physician contributions to patient care and the community.

FAQ’S

Which medical specialty provides the best work-life balance?

Specialties known for work-life balance often have predictable schedules and less on-call work. Options include Dermatology, Psychiatry, and Allergy & Immunology. These fields often allow for more control over scheduling and may offer opportunities for part-time work.

Is it possible to switch specialties later in my career?

Yes, it’s possible! Some specialties have fellowship programs allowing you to transition after residency. Consider the time and financial commitment involved in additional training.

How important is salary when choosing a specialty?

Financial security is important, but prioritize your passion and well-being. High-paying specialties often involve demanding schedules and high-stress environments. Research salary ranges but focus on finding a specialty that aligns with your long-term goals and happiness.