Stress ails primary care physicians, Loyola study finds

Ever have one of those days where you just want to call it quits?

According to a new study published in the July issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine, and authored by a Loyola University School of Medicine professor and others, “those days” are a prominent problem for many primary care physicians.

Burnout, says Dr. Anita Varkey, could contribute to the national decline in primary care physicians, and in turn, lower quality care for patients.

The study, which polled 422 doctors in the Midwest, including Chicago, and New York City, found that large numbers of physicians claimed a lack of control of their work, a chaotic work pace and time constraints during patient visits.

More than a quarter complained of burnout. More than 30 percent indicated they would leave the field within five years.

These factors, the study concludes, lead to low job satisfaction and the decision to leave the primary care field.

Primary care physicians are shrinking in numbers across the country, according to the Association of Medical Colleges. By 2025, the country may face a shortfall of more than 124,000 primary physicians.

Read the full story at the Daily News site.