So, what are the ethical considerations of burnout in resident physicians? The negative aspects of burnout can adversely affect patient care, effective learning, personal health, and interpersonal relationships. Burnout in a resident, if not addressed and mitigated, can persist into practice, becoming a problem for both patient and physician. The burned-out otolaryngologist is unhappy and depressed, and spreads those feelings to those around him/her, especially to the patient. It is our ethical responsibility to address this issue and discharge our duty to patient, physician, profession, and society.
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April 2017Dr. Holt is professor emeritus in the department of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.
Key Points
- Physician burnout has become an increasingly recognized issue in the profession.
- Younger physicians and surgeons may be more susceptible to developing burnout.
- It is an ethical imperative for the program director and faculty members to be aware of the phenomenon.