Professional Burnout and Work–Life Balance Among Physicians: A Narrative Review

Abstract

To synthesise current evidence on professional burnout among physicians, with a focus on epidemiology, causes, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, prevention strategies, and management. The review also examines the role of work–life balance as a modifiable determinant of burnout risk.

Design: Narrative review.

Methods: A targeted literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and grey literature sources. Priority was given to systematic reviews, meta‑analyses, and policy documents published in the last 10 years. Evidence was synthesised thematically across system‑level, organisational, and individual domains. This review integrates data from longitudinal surveys, meta‑analyses, and organizational strategies published through early 2026.

Results: Burnout remains a critical occupational phenomenon, with 2026 recognized by some as the "Year of Doing Less" to prioritize intentionality over productivity. Key drivers include excessive administrative burden and systemic misalignment of values. Burnout affects 30‑60% of physicians globally, with higher prevalence in high‑intensity specialties. Key drivers include excessive workload, administrative burden, poor organisational culture, emotional labour, and inadequate work‑life integration. Burnout manifests through emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced professional efficacy, often accompanied by cognitive, behavioural, and physical symptoms. Validated tools such as the Maslach Burnout Inventory and Copenhagen Burnout Inventory support assessment. Consequences include reduced job satisfaction, increased turnover intention, impaired patient safety, and organisational inefficiency. Evidence suggests that interventions targeting work life balance ‑ such as flexible scheduling, workload redistribution, and supportive leadership ‑ significantly reduce burnout risk. Individual‑level strategies (e.g., mindfulness, coaching) offer additional benefit but are insufficient without systemic reform.

Conclusions: Physician burnout is a complex occupational syndrome with far‑reaching implications for clinicians, patients, and healthcare systems. Work‑life balance is a critical and modifiable determinant. Effective prevention and management require coordinated, multi‑level interventions that address organisational culture, workload, digital infrastructure, and individual support. Future research should prioritise longitudinal evaluation of system‑level interventions and implementation strategies. Effective management requires a dual approach: individual resilience and, crucially, institutional reform to protect physician well‑being and patient safety.

Keywords: Physician Burnout; Work-Life Balance; Occupational Stress; Emotional Exhaustion; Depersonalisation; Professional Well-Being; Healthcare Workforce; Job Satisfaction; Patient Safety; Organisational Culture; Workload Management; Prevention and Intervention; Mental Health in Healthcare Professionals; Healthcare Systems; Workforce Retention

Citation

Zaparackaite I, Singh SJ, Bhattacharya DC, Correia RC, Mehta AR, Midha PK, et al. Professional Burnout and Work–Life Balance Among Physicians: A Narrative Review. WebLog J Community Med. wjcm.2026.b1304. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18795464