Rachel Rubin, MD, presents “Physician Burnout in Urology.”
How to cite: Rubin, Rachel. “Physician Burnout in Urology.” Grand Rounds in Urology. Published September 30, 2025. Accessed Oct 2025. https://grandroundsinurology.com/physician-burnout-in-urology/
Physician Burnout in Urology – Summary
Diane K. Newman, DNP, ANP-BC, FAAN, FAUNA, BCB-PMD, Senior Editorial Director, Grand Rounds in Urology, and Urology and Pelvic Floor Nurse Specialist, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Adjunct Professor of Surgery, Division of Urology, Perelman School of Medicine, Emerita, introduces Scott A. MacDiarmid, MD, FRCPSC, Alliance Urology Specialists, Greensboro, North Carolina. Dr. McDiarmid describes clinician burnout in urology, first discussing the demographics in the specialty. He notes that among approximately ten thousand practicing urologists, the median age is fifty-nine years, with nearly thirty percent older than sixty-five. Only 300 new graduates enter the specialty each year. He argues that with increasing demand from an aging population, burnout diminishes workforce capacity.
Dr. MacDiarmid describes stages of burnout, beginning with persistent irritation and progressing to anger, resentment, discouragement, and even loss of purpose. He warns that chronic stress alters personality and relationships, and highlights pathological altruism, harming both provider and patient.
He argues that clinicians should focus on what they can control. Strategies include accepting healthcare system limitations and making routine, values-based choices. He underscores the importance of setting boundaries and ending the clinical day at a defined time.
Dr. MacDiarmid and Dr. Newman advocate for education on burnout and call for sponsorship to provide support. The goal is to sustain professional purpose and safeguard well-being while delivering quality patient care.
