“New Year, New You.” The moment the ball drops in Times Square, this sentiment is reflected in thousands of places. Over the following weeks, people often take stock of changes they might undertake to lead happier, more fulfilling lives in the new year.
For many, the momentum to improve ourselves is expressed in New Year’s Resolutions to be healthier – setting goals to lose weight, give up smoking, exercise more, start meditating and eat better. Along with improving our personal habits, we often pledge to catch up on routine health screenings and preventative care we may have been putting off.
As a physician, I love to see an uptick in people taking better care of themselves.
However, it’s no secret that hospitals and other medical facilities are facing a shortage of doctors, nurses and other skilled healthcare workers.
Those who spent the last three years working double shifts and witnessing illness, grief and growing levels of violence are understandably burned out. Nearly half (42%) of physicians say they’re not only exhausted but struggling to find time to relax and enjoy life.
To be clear, hospitals and surgery centers have stringent standards which they must – and do – follow. In any field, however, overstressed, overworked people are more prone to making errors. Healthcare is no exception.