Nearly 55% of U.S. physicians feel valued, but gender gap persists: AMA
ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES— A new American Medical Association (AMA) report reveals 54.5% of United States physicians now feel valued by their organizations, marking steady improvement from 46.3% in 2022.
The findings highlight how hospitals are combating burnout through cultural shifts from leadership programs to simple recognition amid ongoing staffing shortages and rising patient demands.
Steady gains in physician satisfaction, but gaps remain
AMA’s 2024 Organizational Biopsy survey reports 18,000 physicians showing consistent progress, with the rise in the percentage of those feeling valued.
However, disparities persist, with 58.2% of male physicians reporting feeling appreciated compared to 51.6% of female physicians, writes AMA news editor Sara Berg.
Specialty breakdowns reveal family medicine with 56.4% and pediatrics with 55.9% lead in satisfaction, while hospital medicine with 50.6% lags.
Still, broader optimism exists; 81.2% of doctors believe their work matters, and 58.1% say they’re thriving, suggesting targeted efforts are working.
Recognition and communication drive retention
Hospitals are adopting creative solutions to boost morale. Bayhealth banned the term “provider” to reinforce respect, while Texas Children’s Pediatrics launched a physician engagement and wellness committee for open dialogue.
Sutter Health’s recognition program, which includes handwritten notes and shoutouts, demonstrates that small gestures can have a big impact.
The AMA Health System Program, partnering with 130 organizations, provides toolkits to streamline workflows and reduce burnout. At Sanford Health, prioritizing culture over strategy has reduced turnover, demonstrating that feeling valued directly impacts retention, Berg notes.
Leadership programs and systemic changes
Ochsner Health’s leadership program empowers physicians with career growth opportunities, while Marshfield Clinic uses AMA data to pinpoint stress points. On the other hand, Hattiesburg Clinic finds ways to foster connections amongst employees.
The AMA’s STEPS Forward initiative offers open-access resources to improve efficiency and well-being.
With 80.8% of physicians stating that they make a meaningful difference, these systemic changes are crucial to sustaining the workforce amid staffing crisis.
