Half of doctors feeling the pressure

ALMOST half of doctors suffer from emotional exhaustion related to burnout, according to a new report.

The study also found many GPs feel disengaged and have a reduced sense of personal achievement.

Researchers claim the survey of more than 500 doctors is the largest assessment of the profession using an established test of burnout called the Maslach Burnout Inventory.

The report concluded that “a significant group of doctors is in trouble”. The results showed that 42 per cent of GPs feel detached from their surroundings – expressed as negativity and cynicism – with those who work in group practices more likely to suffer than single-handed doctors.

“The finding could be the result of group practice creating extra demands on practitioners while raising the possibility of interpersonal tensions and conflicts,” added the researchers.

The report will be published in the BMJ Open journal.