Physician Burnout Can Cause Medical Errors

Physician burnout is a major problem in the United States. The 2019 National Physicians Burnout & Depression Report finds that four in ten American doctors report feeling “burned out” at work. This is far more than just a matter for human resources departments; to be sure, physician burnout is a serious safety issue.

Several studies have found that physician burnout is linked with medical errors. Burned out doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers are not always able to provide patients with safe, high-quality care. Here, our Virginia Beach medical malpractice lawyers highlight some of the key findings from a recent study on physician burnout and medical errors.

Study: Physician Burnout May Result in Medical Mistakes

According to a study published by the Stanford University School of Medicine, physicians who report feeling “burned out” are more than twice as likely to commit a medical error within the last three months. Beyond leading to additional medical mistakes, the researchers found that doctor burnout also directly influences the overall quality of care provided and patient satisfaction.

It has become clear that many hospitals and healthcare providers are not doing enough to ensure that their physicians and nurses are able to provide high-quality care for patients. Notably, according to a recent article from Becker’s Clinical Leadership & Infection Control, physician mothers are at an especially high risk of burnout. It makes sense that these doctors, who often have additional family obligations, would be more susceptible to feeling burned out on the job. Healthcare providers need to put the proper support services in place to reduce burnout and facilitate safe, reliable patient care.

The Most Common Examples of Medical Malpractice 

Medical malpractice comes in a wide variety of different forms. When patients seek professional medical attention, they expect to receive high-quality care. Under New York law, physicians and healthcare providers can be held legally liable for patient harm or patient injuries that occur because substandard care was offered. Some notable examples of medical malpractice include:

1. Doctor misdiagnosis;
2. Surgical mistakes and anesthesia errors;
3. Medication/prescription drug errors;
4. Birth injuries;
5. Dental malpractice;
6. Cosmetic surgery malpractice;
7. Patient abandonment; and
8. Premature discharge of patient.

For patients and families, it is not always easy to know if a medical malpractice occurred. These are complicated legal cases. If you or your loved one sought medical care and suffered any type of injury or harm, you should not hesitate to contact an experienced attorney who will review your case. Do not assume that you are prevented from filing a claim.

Speak to Our Hampton Roads/Virginia Beach Medical Malpractice Lawyers Today

At Breit Law, P.C., our Hampton Roads medical malpractice attorneys are ardent advocates for patient safety. If you or your loved one suffered injury as a result of medical negligence, we are here to help. To arrange a fully confidential consultation, please contact us right away.