Gastroenterologists are more prone to burnout than other physicians, according to Joseph C. Anderson, MD, of the Hanover, N.H.-based Dartmouth College Geisel School of Medicine. Dr. Anderson and Carol A. Burke, MD, of the Cleveland Clinic spoke at the American Gastroenterological Association's symposium on physician burnout earlier this month.
Three ways gastroenterologists can avoid burnout:
1. Team-based care models that allow physicians to focus more on clinical work rather than administrative is effective in reducing burnout, Dr. Anderson said.
2. Dr. Burke said eating a healthy diet, exercising and getting enough sleep can help reduce feelings of burnout. She also recommended taking advantage of work flex hours and virtual visits to decrease work burden.
3. Gastroenterologists should also keep in mind that elevated levels of stress can lead to other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and depression, Dr. Burke said. Burnout also can affect patient care through decreased productivity and disengagement, she said.