Physician Work-Life Balance: How to Advocate for Yourself in a Challenging Work Environment

Hospitalist Faces Burnout Due to Unreasonable Work Schedule

A hospitalist on the East Coast is speaking out about the challenges he faces due to an unreasonable work schedule that is taking a toll on his well-being. The physician, who has been at his current position since finishing residency, shared his frustrations in a recent post on a Facebook group.

According to the hospitalist, his group is severely understaffed, with at least 1.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions unfilled. As a result, the hospitalists are regularly working 24-hour shifts, with little time to recover between shifts. The physician expressed concerns about the safety of working such long hours, especially when driving home after being awake for 24 hours straight.

Despite raising these concerns with the administration, the hospitalist has seen no changes to the schedule. The physician emphasized that leaving the job is not a viable option, as he values his colleagues and is fairly compensated. Additionally, his wife wants to stay in the area due to proximity to her family.

In response to the hospitalist’s dilemma, Dr. Margaret Curtis, a columnist for The White Coat Investor, offered some advice. She acknowledged the difficulty of leaving a toxic work situation and suggested steps the physician could take to improve his current job.

Dr. Curtis advised the hospitalist to protect his medical license and speak up if asked to practice outside his scope or without proper support staff. She also recommended reviewing his contract and personnel file, as well as discussing the situation with colleagues who may be experiencing similar challenges.

Furthermore, Dr. Curtis encouraged the hospitalist to ask for the schedule and salary he deserves, emphasizing that he should not settle for less than what is fair. If all else fails, Dr. Curtis suggested starting a job search while taking steps to address the current work situation.

Ultimately, Dr. Curtis emphasized the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being and seeking a better job if necessary. The hospitalist deserves a work environment that values his skills and training, as well as his overall health and safety.

As the hospitalist navigates this challenging situation, the support of his wife and colleagues will be crucial in finding a resolution that prioritizes his well-being. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for oneself in the face of unreasonable work conditions.