Incompletely Staffed Teams Tied to Physician Burnout and Desire to Quit

May 27, 2025

Nearly 50% of physicians reported burnout and that they often work on incompletely staffed teams in a recently published research letter in which 970 physicians were surveyed. Other stats include:

• 26.4% indicated they are likely or definitely intend to reduce their clinical work hours
• 15.4% indicated they are likely or definitely intend to leave their current organization in the 12 months
• 47.9% said they worked on incompletely staffed teams more than 25% of the time.

Statistics about working on incompletely staffed teams varied by specialty, reaching 44.8% for primary care, 49.3% for surgery and 64.2% for other specialties.

What do the study authors believe is the cause for these staffing shortages? Work overload, burnout and intent to leave an organization as lingering effects from the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you’re feeling overworked or experiencing career burnout, visit ISMIE’s Wellness Center that includes resources to support your journey of navigating the demands of the medical profession.

If you have questions, please contact the Risk Management Division by email.