Survey Shows Stress Level For Physicians Has Reverted To COVID Pandemic Levels
Being a physician is a rewarding profession, but it also entails a significant amount of stress, and a recent survey by The Physicians’ Foundation revealed that the problem is worsening. Doctors reported feeling stress levels similar to what they experienced during the COVID pandemic. Standards of patient care and the quality of medical treatment could both suffer if this issue is not meaningfully addressed.
Are you a licensed physician being investigated by your medical board for a bad treatment outcome? The managed care industry is placing ever-increasing demands on physicians in terms of patient loads, while simultaneously limiting their treatment options. That combination can elevate your stress level and impact your performance. The LLF National Law Firm Professional License Defense Team understands what you’re going through, and we’re here to fight for you. Call us at 888-535-3686 or contact us online today.
Nearly 60% of Physicians Report Anxiety and Anger
Almost six out of 10 (57%) of the survey respondents admitted to feeling “anger, tearfulness, or anxiety” in the year. That’s an increase from 2023 and 2024, when about half of the physicians surveyed reported those feelings, but it’s comparable to their responses during the height of the COVID pandemic in 2021 and 2022. Perhaps more alarmingly, 55% of survey respondents described the work-related stress they felt as “debilitating.”
The elevated stress levels may be contributing to other unhealthy behaviors. Nearly half (46%) of physicians surveyed admitted to self-isolating behaviors, such as distancing themselves from colleagues, friends, and family. Additionally, 55% of physicians surveyed said they planned to seek out different employment options within the next 12 months.
Mental Health Issues Still Face Stigma
There is also concern that physicians may be reticent to seek help for work-related stress because of a stigma about mental health issues that exists within the profession. The survey indicated that 73% of physicians believe there is a stigma about accessing mental health resources. That may be related to the fact that mental incompetence is listed as a potential cause for license suspension or revocation by many medical licensing boards.
The Catch-22 for Physicians
Elevated stress levels and job dissatisfaction in the medical profession can create a catch-22 for physicians. They’re expected to perform at a high level, even when working conditions may be less than ideal. On the other hand, if those less-than-ideal working conditions contribute to a bad patient outcome, the treating physician could still be held primarily responsible.
State licensing boards can investigate and sanction physicians suspected of malpractice or lacking mental fitness. Although it’s critical to ensure that licensed physicians perform competently, who goes to bat for them when they’re overworked and/or overstressed? The LLF National Law Firm Professional License Defense Team has successfully defended physicians nationwide, and we never stop fighting for our clients. Call us at 888-535-3686 or contact us online today.