Physician Happiness & Lifestyle

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Many doctors are finding it difficult to regain the same level of happiness that they expected prior to the pandemic, according to Medscape’s 2023 Physician Lifestyle and Happiness Report.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a great deal of stress and burnout for physicians, who have had to work long hours and deal with a high level of stress and illness. The impact of COVID-19 has been felt both professionally and personally, making it difficult for many doctors to find balance and happiness in their lives. 

Physician Happiness

Medscape surveyed 9200 physicians across 29 specialties and found out that 58% of the respondents stated that  they are very or somewhat happy, a significant decrease from before the pandemic when 84% of the physicians said they were very or somewhat happy outside of work. 

Similarly, when physicians were asked how happy they were at work, 48% of the respondents stated that they are very or somewhat happy right now, as compared to 75% of the respondents who said that they are very or somewhat happy at work prior to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Physicians willing to take less pay for a better work-life balance

When asked if they would take less pay for a better work-life balance, the response was not surprising at all. 55% of the participants said that taking less pay for a better work-life balance sounded good to them. 

Due to the high levels of stress associated with their jobs, the willingness of these doctors to take a pay cut in exchange for a better work-life balance suggests that they prioritize their well-being and the need for a healthier work-life balance over financial compensation. 

Incorporating nurse triage solution in your practice to maintain a healthy work-life balance

Nurse triage solution is an effective approach in providing physicians with a healthy work-life balance. 

90% of AccessNurse clients select our nurse triage solution to provide a better work life balance to their providers as the primary reason to opt for nurse triage. 

Access to a reliable nurse triage is essential to providing your physicians with a good work-life balance, as nurse triage offers 24/7/365 access to timely care making sure that your patients receive accurate care advice at the right time from the comfort of their homes.

AccessNurse utilizes the most up-to-date Schmitt Thompson protocols, also known as the gold standard, which are used by our telephone triage nurses to evaluate patient’s symptoms pointing them to the appropriate path to care. 

It’s important for healthcare organizations to take this into consideration and provide flexible work arrangements, adequate resources, and support to help their workers manage stress and maintain a healthy balance. 

AccessNurse continues to stand united with our healthcare partners to ensure quality patient care. If your organization needs support with nurse triage calls during this holiday season, click here to start your journey with AccessNurse.


Karen Brown serves as Vice President of Strategic Growth and Client Relations for AccessNurse. In her role, Karen applies her operational knowledge and passion for clinical excellence and patient experience as a consultant to potential clients. She works with clients to understand their objectives and advises on AccessNurse’s services to add value to our client organizations.