The headlines are the same across the state: “More Hospital Cutbacks, Another Round of Doctor Layoffs.” Unfortunately, I could go on. Meanwhile, a new problem is brewing: The growing misery among doctors, and the urgent need for change.
A report from the National Academy of Medicine found a staggering increase in distress among primary care physicians — soaring from 40-50% pre-COVID to 70-90% post-COVID.
Under-staffing and the overwhelming amount of daily computer work are a common complaint. Electronic medical record systems are robbing physicians of time they could be spending with patients. The “Medscape Physician Report” for 2023 found that physicians spend an average of 15.5 hours a week on computer work and administrative tasks.
Considering these challenges, innovative solutions are needed. This is one of the reasons I am proud to be a part of Gloria Gates CARE, a Medicaid healthcare initiative that prioritizes allowing doctors to focus on compassionate whole-person care rather than administrative tasks.
To facilitate this, we have developed a collaboration with a major Managed Care Organization that takes care of most of the administrative duties. Our approach, which includes implementing a daily patient cap of 15, has the potential to revolutionize the way we support and empower our physicians.
It’s time for healthcare organizations and policymakers to take proactive steps to implement similar initiatives and address the root causes of physician burnout. This includes investing in adequate staffing, streamlining the administrative process, and providing support systems to allow doctors to thrive.
Donny Beaver, CEO, Gloria Gates CARE, Altoona
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