| Title: |
Impact of the family physician shortage on BC specialists' health and well-being. |
| Authors: |
Mason, Anna1, Atwood, Kristin2, Hodgins, Frieda3 |
| Source: |
British Columbia Medical Journal. Jul/Aug2024, Vol. 66 Issue 6, p210-214. 5p. |
| Subject Terms: |
*PHYSICIAN supply & demand, *LABOR market, *WELL-being, *INTERNET forums, *ONLINE comments |
| Geographic Terms: |
VICTORIA |
| Abstract: |
Background: Little is known about the impact the shortage of primary care physicians has on specialists who are caring for patients who do not have a family physician. Methods: This qualitative study involved semistructured interviews with 37 specialists in Victoria, British Columbia; an additional 21 specialists provided written comments anonymously in an online forum. Participants were asked to describe the impact the shortage of primary care physicians has on their patient profile, clinical workflows, and work volumes. Results: Participants reported an increase in the number of patients who do not have a primary care physician. This has affected specialists' ability to discharge patients, which has resulted in longer wait lists and a greater work burden. Additionally, patients who do not have a family physician seek care from specialists that is beyond the scope they can provide. Participants also reported a decline in the quality of their professional and personal relationships and an increase in moral distress; some stated they were delaying retirement or leaving the workforce early and were concerned about the erosion of their skills and the ability to take sick time or extended leave. Conclusions: The shortage of primary care physicians has ripple effects on other levels of care. This exacerbates existing issues related to labor shortages and burnout for specialists practising in BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
|
Copyright of British Columbia Medical Journal is the property of British Columbia Medical Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) |
| Database: |
Academic Search Complete |
