The Overburdened Physician II.- Which characteristics make them particularly vulnerable? - What is the main Bource of satisfaction for the physician?- What are the recommended strategies for coping with stress in the medical profession?

Overview

In relation to professional stresses it is a risk for the physician if he does not realize the fact tkat patients frequently do not do what they should and therapeutic possibilities are frequently limited. A further risk faktor is excessive identification with the patient, and in the relationship with colleagues the limited ability of communication, and the resulting feeling of isolation is a risk faktor. The physicians had the greatest professional satisfaction from the fact tkat they are useful and needed and from the successful solution of difficult cases. The majority of studies reaches the conclusion tkat effective prevention of health problems is a balanced lifestyle, the ability and possibility to discuss difficulties with patients and possible conflicts and personal difficulties with colleagues, and an emphatic but realistic attitude to the patient and to possibilities of treatment. Some doctors mentioned tkat it is an advantage to elaborate a life and professional philosophy. An elementary example is an adequate hierarchy of values, order of priorities, organization of time and solution of conflict of interesu.

Key words:
physician's stress - physician's burnout - physician's carrer.