Medscape’s 2026 gastroenterologist well-being survey reveals a profession struggling to practice what it preaches. Forty percent of gastroenterologists report burnout, while 43% say they struggle to get consistent, sufficient sleep. Nearly all (98%) consider family and personal time important, yet 84% of those with children under 21 feel their kids need more of their time and attention.
The trade-offs are striking: 64% would accept a pay cut for more family and personal time, while 77% say hobbies and outside interests are important to their well-being. And although 85% of gastroenterologists in relationships describe their marriage as good or very good, 14% rate it fair, poor or very poor.
The survey paints a picture of physicians who understand exactly what healthy living requires—but often struggle to make room for it themselves. The problem may be less about knowing what to do and more about having a profession that makes doing it difficult.