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.