Burnout among healthcare workers hits crisis level
Healthcare workers are more burned out than ever due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic––creating a new demand for workforce solutions.
Burnout, defined as job-related stress characterized by feelings of detachment, exhaustion, cynicism and a lack of personal accomplishment, has been a long-term problem in the healthcare industry for years. However, there’s some evidence it was improving, at least among physicians, in the years leading up to the pandemic.
Physicians were already roughly twice as likely to feel effects of burnout compared to the general population before the pandemic. Unfortunately, higher patient volumes coupled with higher regulations and requirements and the industry’s demand to become more businesslike have worsened pressures on physicians.
Some 60% to 75% of clinicians have reported symptoms of exhaustion, depression, sleep disorders and PTSD since the start of the pandemic, according to U.S. News & World Report, which recently published a webinar on the issue. Another concerning trend is that about 20% of healthcare workers have quit during the same time period. Among workers who remain in the industry, 4 out of 5 say staffing shortages have impacted their ability to work safely and to satisfy patient needs.
The pandemic forced physicians to work longer hours and perform in different capacities. At the same time, personal protective equipment was in short supply during parts of the pandemic, making the jobs of healthcare workers riskier. However, workforce changes were not just within the healthcare industry, meaning burnout solutions are desperately needed across industries and across all aspects of healthcare institutions.
Amy joined TriMed Media as a Senior Writer for HealthExec after covering home care for three years. When not writing about all things healthcare, she fulfills her lifelong dream of becoming a pirate by sailing in regattas and enjoying rum. Fun fact: she sailed 333 miles across Lake Michigan in the Chicago Yacht Club "Race to Mackinac."