When Medicine Becomes a Calling: Impact on Physicians and Patient Care. In a recent Medscape survey, nearly 3 out of 4 US physicians revealed that they view their profession in medicine as a calling rather than just a job or a means to earn a paycheck. This perception, often described as a “calling,” reflects a deep sense of purpose and personal investment in their work. Interestingly, this sentiment is equally shared among male and female doctors, those aged 45 and older, and both primary care physicians and specialists. The survey was conducted from July 26 to August 11, 2022.
So, what exactly does it mean when doctors see medicine as a calling? It signifies more than just a career; it represents a profound commitment to their patients and a strong alignment of values with their work. On the other hand, viewing medicine as a job implies a focus on financial compensation and the ability to invest in other aspects of life outside of work.
Historically, medicine has often been referred to as a calling, and those who don’t share this view have faced criticism and backlash. They may even be at a higher risk of experiencing burnout or retiring prematurely from the profession.
Research also indicates that physicians who perceive medicine as a calling tend to go the extra mile for their patients. They work long hours, prioritize their patients’ well-being over their own, and are willing to sacrifice personal and family time for the sake of patient care. However, this tendency to self-sacrifice has raised concerns about whether believing in a calling could be detrimental to physicians.
The Pros and Cons of a Calling in Medicine
According to Dr. Peter Yellowlees, a distinguished professor of psychiatry at the University of California, Davis, viewing medicine as a calling can have positive implications for both physicians and patients. Doctors who feel called to medicine are more likely to express deep satisfaction with their work and a sense of fulfillment in their career. They often describe their mission in life as being a healer.
Primary care physicians, in particular, who view medicine as a calling, report higher satisfaction in treating patients facing challenges such as substance dependence and obesity. However, some physicians may take their dedication too far, leading to excessive work hours and constant availability to their patients.
This extreme commitment can lead to burnout and a lack of work-life balance. Some doctors may feel the need to be available to their patients at all times, which can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion. Striking the right balance between dedication to patient care and self-care is essential to maintaining a fulfilling and sustainable medical career.
Burnout and the Perception of Medicine as a Calling
Research published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found a strong association between burnout and the perception of medicine as a calling. Physicians who experienced burnout were less likely to consider medicine a calling and more likely to see it as a job, primarily a means to earn a living. This suggests that burnout can erode the intrinsic motivation and pro-social orientation that often characterize those who view medicine as a calling.
Physicians who no longer see medicine as a calling may be more focused on financial compensation and less on the intrinsic rewards of their work. Burnout can lead to reduced job satisfaction, lower perceived importance of their work, and decreased belief in the positive impact they can have on the world through their medical practice.
Physicians Who Don’t Feel Called to Medicine
Interestingly, about 1 in 5 respondents in the Medscape survey indicated that they don’t feel called to medicine. These physicians expressed satisfaction with their careers but also found fulfillment in other aspects of life. They appreciate the financial rewards and prestige that come with being a doctor but don’t consider it their entire life.
For many physicians, this perspective allows them to lead well-rounded lives that include diverse interests and relationships outside of medicine. Dr. Yellowlees emphasizes that it’s essential not to assume that doctors who are less passionate about medicine or those who entered the field for financial reasons are any less dedicated or competent than those who feel called.
International Perspectives on the Calling in Medicine
Physicians practicing outside the US were less likely to view medicine as a calling. While 73% of US doctors felt called to medicine, only 54% of physicians outside the US shared this sentiment. This discrepancy is partly attributed to the significant difference in earnings between US doctors and their counterparts in countries with nationalized healthcare systems.
In the US, doctors receive higher salaries and enjoy greater respect from their communities, which may contribute to the perception of medicine as a calling. Doctors outside the US were more likely to report that they enjoy their medical careers but find other aspects of life equally fulfilling.
Balancing Dedication and Self-Care
Regardless of whether doctors view medicine as a calling, it’s crucial for them to strike a balance between their professional and personal lives. Setting boundaries and managing patients’ expectations regarding availability is essential, especially in the age of easy accessibility through patient portals.
Physicians who feel called to medicine need to ensure that their dedication doesn’t lead to burnout or neglect of their own well-being and family life. Conversely, doctors who see medicine as a job should find fulfillment outside of their careers and maintain a balanced and rewarding life.
In conclusion, the perception of medicine as a calling can be a driving force for physicians to provide high-quality care and go the extra mile for their patients. However, it also comes with the risk of burnout if not managed effectively. Striking a balance between dedication to patient care and self-care is crucial for the well-being of physicians and the quality of healthcare they provide.
