Abstract

Growing stress and burnout has intensified negative physician thoughts and feelings about medical practice. Working under increasing pressures from outside interference, time spent on fulfilling nonclinical bureaucratic demands, growing complexity and new technology innovations, requirements for electronic medical record documentation, increasing productivity and capacity requirements, and workflow changes have all impacted physician attitudes and behaviors toward the delivery of medical care. As a result, many physicians have either left practice prematurely or tried a variety of practice readjustments. Many of those who stay are unhappy or dissatisfied with their positions. Some suffer from physical or emotional harm. Others become aloof, angry, and cynical. Some express their frustrations by exhibiting disruptive behaviors which negatively impact work relationships and can impede quality care. Organizations need to recognize the cause and consequences of this stressful environment and provide resources to help physicians better adjust to the pressures of medical practice

Keywords:Physician stress and burnout; Disruptive behavior; Physician wellness