The New England Journal of Medicine recently published a paper titled “Digital Minimalism - an Rx for Clinician Burnout.” The article points to a recent study that found the amount of time spent in electronic health records (EHRs) correlates with declines in face-to-face time with the patient, computer-based work after hours and increasing rates of burnout. Digital minimalism could be a new way forward for physicians.

Call-outs, resignations, and limited staffing resources make it challenging to keep up with the day to day requirements of a primary care practice. While many corporations are transitioning to remote or hybrid work and are increasing compensation to remain competitive, it is difficult to make these changes in a field where in person contact is necessary. Telemedicine is certainly a trend here to stay, but most visits still require an in-person appointment so the provider can listen to the patient’s heart, lungs, and perform tests that cannot be done from home.

As a company working towards a value-based care program, the number one thing needed for success is the alignment of your incentives with each of your team members. 

While it’s nearly impossible to attribute just one, or even a handful of causes to the lack of traction or success for value-based care, it is possible to assess influence and recommend focused avenues for positive change.

It is no secret that healthcare has been in crisis — a staffing crisis. While the pandemic certainly exacerbated the situation, present workloads, emerging patterns contrary to traditional practice, and burnout are only the latest in a long line of factors straining the healthcare workforce.