Wellness and Burnout
ABFM research examines the prevalence, determinants, and consequences of burnout among family physicians, underscoring the need for system‑level interventions to strengthen physician wellness and workforce sustainability.
Why Physician Well-Being Matters to Patients, Practices, and Communities
Burnout threatens the foundation of primary care - when the nation needs it most. The human toll on physicians, the downstream effects on patient care, and the rising cost in the healthcare system make this both a moral and economic imperative.
By the Numbers
Family physicians are facing high rates of burnout, with studies estimating that 40% to 50% of practicing physicians experience it. More than one-third of third-year residents report burnout as well, and younger physicians under 40 seem to be especially vulnerable.
What Drives Burnout
Female family physicians experience higher burnout at every career stage, are more likely to reduce hours or go part-time as a coping strategy, and face unique pressures, gender inequity, harassment, and disproportionate domestic duties. Male family physicians experience lower burnout rates and are more likely to invest time in hobbies as a coping strategy.
What Works?
A multipronged approach tackling individual and organizational factors is imperative to foster an engaged, sustainable family medicine workforce.
Wellness and Burnout Bibliography
ABFM‑supported research examines the prevalence, determinants, and consequences of burnout among family physicians, underscoring the need for system‑level interventions to strengthen physician wellness and workforce sustainability.