Key Insights:
- A significant portion of physicians, about 81%, report feeling overworked, and nearly 30% are considering early retirement due to the pressures of their profession. The issue is more pronounced among women and younger physicians, with 92% of female doctors and 89% of those under 30 reporting high levels of overwork. This is compounded by economic pressures and a high volume of non-promotable work responsibilities, particularly in primary care and pediatrics.
- Physician compensation has seen a decline of 2.4% in 2022, with a substantial gender pay gap where male doctors earn nearly $110,000 more annually than their female counterparts. This financial strain is exacerbated by a 2% cut in Medicare payments, stagnant reimbursements, and increasing operational costs, leading many doctors to leave clinical work or consider alternative career paths.
The Doximity survey highlights critical issues facing physicians, including overwork, economic pressures, and a significant gender pay gap. Addressing these challenges is essential for improving physician well-being and maintaining high standards of patient care.