Findings from a recent AMA survey of doctors revealed a headline worth noting: “Physician burnout rate drops below 50% for the first time in 4 years.”
This was celebrated as progress, particularly after the record-high burnout rates reported during the pandemic. However, when nearly half of physicians still report experiencing fatigue, exhaustion, and other troubling symptoms, it’s clear there’s a long way to go—and ample cause for concern.
These findings may shed light on the widening generational divide in how physicians perceive their profession. A recent Wall Street Journal article captured perspectives from doctors of different generations, highlighting a stark contrast in attitudes.
Older physicians often described their work as a “calling” that demands long hours, being on call, and making personal sacrifices to ensure top-tier patient care. In contrast, younger doctors are increasingly prioritizing work-life balance, setting clear boundaries around their time to preserve their mental health and well-being.
This generational difference is reflective of trends seen across many industries, but one comment in the article stood out: a residency director noted that some young residents find the word calling “very triggering and offensive,” viewing it as shorthand for exploitation. This sentiment may stem from the corporatization of medicine and the growing trend of physicians working as employees rather than practice owners. Regardless of the cause, it’s a troubling shift.
When examining this generational divide, both sides have valid points. Older physicians acknowledge the challenges they’ve faced and don’t fault younger doctors for seeking better balance. Yet, they also question whether these boundaries might impact the quality of patient care—a question we don’t yet have a definitive answer to.
Medicine is unique in its deeply personal nature, built on the intimate connection between doctor and patient. For many, it truly is a calling—something they can’t imagine giving up. If it becomes “just a job,” something essential may be lost.
From my experience, what’s often missing is the recognition that patients’ needs extend beyond clinical care. The gap between what patients experience and what they want is a major factor in stunting demand for elective procedures. Helping doctors thrive in their profession is what inspired me to write a book about improving the patient experience.
What I’ve seen firsthand is how focusing on patient experience (PX) can bring joy to younger doctors and reignite the passion of those who’ve felt burned out. PX serves as a unifying force, engaging every team member within a practice. Regardless of someone’s role, we all know what it feels like to be a customer—and that perspective equips us to improve how we serve patients.
What do doctors say about the PX90 Workouts?
If you’re serious about transforming how patients view your practice, I encourage you to explore PX Ninety, a training and staff development program designed to engage your entire team. As Dr. Cynthia Matossian said about her experience with the program: “AMAZING…the advice you provide and the exercises you recommend can improve any given practice.”
Make PX Ninety a gift you give to your practice that will last well beyond the holiday season.
Or schedule a strategy call with me to discuss how this training program can help your practice achieve excellence in customer service and patient loyalty.