Under Pressure: Supporting Physicians Among Mounting Challenges

July 8, 2025

Recent developments in the medical practice environment are raising concerns among physicians about the future of the profession. A recent article outlined several of the current trends that include economic uncertainty, burnout, declining autonomy and policy shifts as being major factors to the growing pressure the physician workforce is experiencing.

Perhaps most alarming is the number of physicians (one in six) who have contemplated or attempted suicide. Around 38% of physicians said they knew one or more colleagues who had either attempted or contemplated suicide. And in 2023, 45.2% of physicians reported at least one symptom of burnout, a decline from 62.8% during the COVID-19 pandemic, but still high as researchers from Stanford Medicine published earlier this year. And, of course, there are endless financial strains because of inadequate reimbursement rates.

If you’re feeling overworked, underpaid or burnt out, visit ISMIE’s Wellness Center for resources to help support you as you navigate the demands of the medical profession.

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