When Compromised Professional Fulfillment Compromises Professionalism

A resident has a caseload of numerous high-risk, complex patients, including patients whose family members are persistently critical of the care provided by the physician. The resident repeatedly questions whether medicine was the right career choice. In a mentorship meeting, when asked about future clinical interests, the resident answers, “I can only work in a boutique practice where I’ll see high-functioning, stable patients. I cannot provide care for anyone else.”
A physician divides their time among clinical, educational, and research pursuits, often working at home well into the night and missing important family events. During a particularly busy clinic, they snap at a member of their team. When asked to collaborate on a research endeavor with a colleague, they refuse tersely. When orienting a trainee, they advise: “You can only work here if you don’t get involved in anything.” Read more on JAMA…