Based on 2020 survey data, nearly a quarter of physicians reported being victims of mistreatment at work. The most prevalent sources of abuse came from patients and visitors. Physician mistreatment is a growing issue in the medical field. Richard Pollack, President of the American Hospital Association, has expressed the desire for legislative changes, stating “This unacceptable situation demands a federal response.”
Physician Mistreatment Data
Survey data collection occurred in September and October 2020. Over 1,000 physicians completed the survey. The article stated that 23.4% of doctors reported mistreatment at work within the past year. 16.6% of maltreatment came from patients and visitors, while abuse from other physicians was reported as the second most common source (7.1%). Women (31%) were also far more likely to experience mistreatment than men (15%). The most reported forms of abuse were verbal (21.5%), sexual (5.4%), and physical harassment (5.2%).
Physician mistreatment was related to an increase in burnout and a decrease in professional satisfaction. Also, physicians experienced more burnout and less fulfillment when they were not aware protective systems in their workplace. Overall, these factors can lead to more doctors suspending their employment.
Causes of Mistreatment
There are several possible reasons why this mistreatment is occurring. For instance, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have dramatically impacted the healthcare system. Other stressors can also affect doctors and their patients. These include mental health and opioid crises, economic hardships, and political and social issues. As a result, these stressors can lead to medical mistrust.
Future Solutions for Physicians
Hospital management should develop new strategies to limit the mistreatment that physicians are facing. Customer service and patient advocacy approaches should be used, which will ensure patient and provider satisfaction. Healthcare workers also need to be made aware of the systems in place to protect them. Additionally, this could help lead to a more comfortable working environment. Lastly, being culturally aware and respectful could help prevent mistreatment. An inclusive and diverse workspace can limit mistreatment.
Get Certified
American Medical Compliance (AMC) is a leader in the industry of compliance courses. Learn how you can do your part in making a better working environment by taking one of various courses on Harassment in the Workplace. Visit www.americanmedicalcompliance.com for more information.
References:
HealthLeaders (2022, May 17). Quarter of physicians report experiencing mistreatment at work. Retrieved from https://www.healthleadersmedia.com/clinical-care/quarter-physicians-report-experiencing-mistreatment-work
