Doctor Discontent

Abstract

Many American doctors are unhappy with the quality of their professional lives. Abundant anecdotal evidence and several surveys identify some of the factors that underlie their discontent. The actions doctors are taking confirm that there is substantial dismay. What are they complaining about, and what are they doing about it? How successful are their responses likely to be? Can a health care system function effectively if a sizable fraction of its physicians are disgruntled? Are patients well served by unhappy physicians?Frustrations in their attempts to deliver ideal care, restrictions on their personal time, financial incentives that strain their professional . . .