Surgeons in difficulty: an exploration of differences in assistance-seeking behaviors between male and female surgeons.
Physician burnout has been linked to medical errors among surgeons. This national survey study of 212 surgeons identified differences in how male and female surgeons deal with seeking assistance when under stress. Men and women worked similar hours, but female surgeons were less satisfied with work–life balance and personal fulfillment. Male surgeons were more likely to seek support from colleagues or friends, whereas women tended to go to professional counselors.