Objective:

To analyze the reasons and demographics of physicians leaving clinical practice, comparing findings with a similar cohort from 2008.

Key Findings:

• Mean age of physicians leaving practice is 48 years, down from 57 years in 2008.
• 45% cited 'hassle factor' and 'too stressful' work as reasons for leaving.
• 41% cited increasingly unrealistic patient demands.
• 38% cited lack of professional satisfaction.
• Malpractice premiums were cited by only 11% of respondents, indicating a shift in reasons for departure.
• Women represented 64% of respondents and had shorter clinical careers than men.

Interpretation:

The findings suggest a significant shift in the reasons for early attrition from clinical practice, with burnout-related factors becoming more prominent, although the study design did not establish a causal relationship.

Limitations:

• Low response rate.
• Retrospective self-reporting.
• Focus on physicians who had already left or reduced practice.
• Focus on physicians who had never practiced after residency.

Conclusion:

Understanding the factors behind early attrition can help tailor interventions for a sustainable physician workforce.