[New working time models-what is possible and how?]

Background: Workforce scheduling in healthcare faces significant challenges as overload, bureaucracy, and insufficient digitalization severely impact the satisfaction of physicians. In particular, the desire for a better work-life balance and more flexible working models is becoming increasingly important in order to retain skilled workers and to cope with the impending shortage of skilled workers.

Objectives: This review article presents current working time models, their advantages and disadvantages, the legal basis, and some practical statements.

Materials and methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to analyze current studies and publications.

Results: Current challenges in healthcare present opportunities to enhance the attractiveness of medical professions, promote work-life balance, and secure the future of the medical profession through innovative work models such as part-time schedules, flexible hours, 4‑day workweeks, shift systems, time accounts, and hybrid working arrangements.

Conclusion: While restructuring work hours offers opportunities to improve efficiency, employee satisfaction, and staff retention, it also entails risks such as increased organizational costs, implementation difficulties in day-to-day practice, and potential workload issues, making clear objectives, employee involvement, and technical support essential.