In healthcare, burnout rates are higher in women. In fact, women physicians cut back or leave medicine earlier and at higher rates than men. Why? Is it added responsibilities at home? Gender bias at work? Invisible work at work? Mom guilt? Too much self-sacrifice and inability to say no? Poor boundaries, lack of time management skills, lack of self-care?
In this podcast, we’ll explore the reasons why women in medicine are struggling—and more importantly, what to do about it. Listen in for support and solutions!
If you’re a professional in a field outside of medicine, these episodes offer insights and strategies that can help you too!

In healthcare, burnout rates are higher in women. In fact, forty percent of women physicians have cut back or left medicine within 6 years of completing training. Why? Is it added responsibilities at home? Gender bias at work? Invisible work at work? Mom guilt? Too much self-sacrifice and inability to say no? Poor boundaries, lack of time management skills, lack of self-care? In this podcast, we’ll explore the reasons why women in medicine are struggling—and more importantly, what to do about it. We can banish burnout and thrive as women in medicine.
In the past few years, a significant shift has occurred in payment for healthcare services, with fewer being covered. The increase in cost-shifting to patients means they are more frequently unable to afford recommended care. This impacts clinicians as well, and moral distress, emotional exhaustion, and burnout can result. In this episode, my guest, Amy Locke, MD, shares her perspective on the problem and potential solutions.
Dr. Amy Locke is a family physician and Chief Wellness Officer and professor of Family and Community Medicine at University of Utah Health.
Connect with Dr. Locke on LinkedIn.
Check out my TEDx talk! If you’d like time to talk about the specific challenges you’re facing, connect with me here or at www.dianeshannon.com.
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Diane W. Shannon, MD, MPH, PCC is an internal medicine physician, award-winning writer, and certified coach. She understands the stresses inherent in the practice of medicine and the additional challenges that women face in the profession. Her passion is helping women in medicine create lives where they can thrive.
Share your experience and continue the conversation with Diane at www.dianeshannon.com or www.linkedin.com/in/dianewshannon

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