Work-Life Balance for Physicians

Helping patients is a top priority for today’s doctors. But, they want to support their patients effectively and efficiently while maintaining a balanced lifestyle for themselves. Quality of life has become an increasingly important issue, especially among younger physicians, when seeking employment.

In recent years, burnout in the medical profession has gone from being a relatively minor concern to becoming a leading topic in medical news stories, lectures, and conferences. Healthcare facilities and doctors are aware that burnout and dissatisfaction with work can have a negative impact on patient care and these issues are starting to be addressed.

Medical Recruiters need to be aware that salary is only one factor when negotiating a compensation package. An increasing number of physicians want workload expectations and hours, to be specified in their contract.

There are many factors affecting the physician’s satisfaction with his/her work environment:

• Number of patients the physician is required to attend to.
• Length and number of shifts.
• Number of days on-call.
• Quality of local environment, and availability of entertainment.
• Availability of affordable housing, and schools.
• Vacation time.
• Assistance with education loans or loan forgiveness.

With today’s shortage of physicians, contracts are no longer “take it or leave it” propositions; there is room for negotiation. A well-trained, conscientious recruiter is an important asset in helping an employer structure a compensation package that will be of mutual benefit to both the healthcare facility and the physician. Attention, by recruiters, in this area will help employers attract the best, and the brightest physicians in the field.