At least 11% of orthopedic surgeons have contemplated suicide, according to Medscape’s 2025 “Orthopedists and Suicide Report,” published March 28.
For the survey, Medscape collected responses from 5,741 physicians between July 1 and Oct. 2.
Here are nine additional things to know about suicide among orthopedic specialists:
1. While 11% of orthopedists have had suicidal ideations, zero percent of surveyed providers have attempted suicide.
2. Around 38% of orthopedists know at least one other physician who has contemplated suicide.
3. In addition, 14% of orthopedists know at least one medical support staffer who has contemplated suicide, and 9% of orthopedists know at least on administrator who has contemplated it.
4. Almost one-fifth of orthopedists (18%) said suicide is a very significant issue for the profession. An additional 28% believe the issue is significant.
5. Almost 50% of orthopedists (49%) said the medical profession has hardly addressed physician suicide.
6. Around 2 in 3 orthopedists who considered suicide said their profession played a role in the issue. Nearly one-fourth (24%) said it played a dominant role, while 42% said it played an important role.
7. While 32% of orthopedists did not confide in anyone about suicidal ideations, nearly half (48%) confided in a therapist.
8. Of the orthopedists who did not seek help for suicidal ideations, 49% said it was because they can deal with the issue without professional help. An additional 41% were worried about the risks of disclosing to a medical board.
9. Nearly half (47%) of orthopedists said they believe another physician would get involved if they heard about suicidal ideations.