Three Effective Ways to Prevent Physician Burnout Today
Everyone experiences burnout from time to time. Between working every day, taking care of a home, paying bills, and perhaps raising a family, life can get pretty overwhelming. And, while we look at our doctors as superheroes, they are human too and experience burnout frequently.While it’s easy to see how burnout can affect physical and mental health, it may be surprising to learn of its economic disadvantages. Studies show that physician burnout costs the healthcare industry $4.6 billion annually!Here at FDR Services, we’ve worked exclusively with the healthcare industry for over three decades. We see how hard physicians work, and how burnout can be a difficult obstacle to overcome. However, there are ways to prevent burnout before it starts to interfere at an economic level.Here are three effective ways to prevent physician burnout:
Spot the Warning Signs
Burnout doesn’t occur overnight; it builds up over a period of time. Whether you’re a colleague, an administrator, or a physician yourself, it’s important to understand the warning signs of burnout so that you have the chance to stop it in its tracks.According to Psychology Today, signs of burnout include: chronic low energy and exhaustion, getting sick more frequently, not recharging, relaxing, or taking breaks, and feelings of inefficacy and cynicism. If a physician you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask if they need help. And, if you’re a physician experiencing these symptoms, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Identifying warning signs and communicating effectively are great ways to start conversations about burnout to help reduce its negative impact.
Clear Your Mind
Physicians have a lot on their minds all of the time. Patients need to be seen, forms need to be filled out, and the amount of stress faced on a daily basis is tremendous. Encourage physicians to take a couple minutes out of the day to practice clearing their minds with mindfulness, and even schedule in that time for them if you have the authority.Mindfulness is the practice of becoming fully present and aware of who you are, what you’re doing, and not letting what’s going on around you completely overwhelm you. While that may sound easier said than done, it’s a practice that has beneficial results. Studies show that practicing mindfulness reduces burnout in primary care physicians significantly. Taking the time to pause, reflect, clear your mind, and meditate can help prevent future burnout for months to come.
Invest in Outside Assistance
There are tips and tricks to aid physicians in preventing and reduce burnout internally, but there are outside resources that can help as well. For example, working with a linen and laundry service can reduce the amount of work physicians need to do, therefore freeing up more time and eliminating extra stress.A laundry service like FDR Services can take care of all of your healthcare linens and uniforms. We will pick up your dirty laundry, clean it according to the highest safety standards, and deliver it back to you on your schedule. This efficient service eliminates the need for an in-house laundry or having to wash your own uniforms frequently.
Let FDR Services Make Your Job Easier Today!
Physician burnout has negative effects on both the physician and the healthcare facility they work in. Spotting warning signs, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing outside help like a linen and laundry service are all ways to help prevent physician burnout. FDR Services serves the east coast with a wide range of products and services specifically designed for the healthcare industry. In short, we are here to make your job easier!For more information on our high-quality laundry services, contact us today for a quote at (800) 337-0097.