Juggling the rigors and complexities of practicing medicine with a desire to enjoy life is becoming increasingly difficult for physicians.
Vinod Goyal, MD, of Advantage Health Care Ltd., in Wood Dale, Ill., discusses the nature of physicians' work life balance as medical physicians
Dr. Goyal is speaking on a panel titled "Work Life Balance: Myth or Possible? Physician Burnout and How to Avoid It" at the Becker's 15th Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC Conference + The Future of Spine, June 22 to 24, 2017 in Chicago. Click here to learn more and register.
Q: How should young physicians pace themselves appropriately to avoid future long-term burnout?
Dr. Vinod Goyal: Plan for a six to seven-hour day, so that you will end up working only seven to eight hours. Try to take one day off per week, preferably in the middle of the week, such as Wednesday.
Q: How do you best manage your work/life balance?
VG: If you can work part-time, you have got it made. If you have to work full-time, try to limit your work week to 34 to 35 hours a week so that you will only end up working no more than 40 hours including administrative tasks. If possible, take Saturday afternoon/evening and all day Sunday off.
Q: Will this balance become more difficult or simpler to maintain in the future?
VG: It may become more difficult as physicians have to work longer hours to maintain the same income.