There have been numerous articles and studies over the last few years about physician burnout. This situation is now being addressed by the management of a physician practices. There is also consideration being given to change the definition of the Triple Aim – better individual healthcare, better population health and lower costs – to the Quadruple Aim. The Quadruple Aim would include the well being of all providers in a healthcare organization.

Burnout is a condition of emotional exhaustion that leads to a physician feeling a lack of personal accomplishments and control over the treatment of their patients. Physician burnout is extensive with 54% of U.S. physicians experiencing at least one symptom of burnout in 2014, which is up from 46% in 2011.

Typical causes of physician burnout are as follows: (1) a physician’s workload; (2) the efficiency and organization of a practice; (3) a physician’s autonomy in the workplace; (4) the balance with home life; (5) alignment with the practice’s values; (6) EHR’s and required documentation and (7) the sense of team work at the practice. Physician’s based on various studies may not realize that they are victims of burnout because of the stress encountered providing services to their patients.

Physician managers need to establish a participatory culture that provides for collaborative and supportive team work. This should allow physicians to better manage their workload and increase support staff per physician. This culture of transparency and team work will lead to a better work environment for the physicians in the practice. Services to patients has consistently improved when physicians are experiencing burnout in their practices.