As
the practice of medicine evolves, so does physicians’ experience of
their professional community. It has become uncommon for “physician lounge” to refer to a physical space where doctors congregate. Morning rounding has been pushed aside by the rise of the
hospitalist
culture and the pressure to do more in less time. But as the profession
grapples with the extent of burnout, research is highlighting the vital
importance of peer support and professional camaraderie to physicians’
well-being. Medical societies, hospitals,
other health care organizations, and individual clinicians are exploring
ways to re-energize the social and professional networks that help
sustain physicians.
