Well-Being Activities Among Internal Medicine Physicians: Results of a National Survey

Objective

To evaluate the frequency and demographic predictors of engaging in personal well-being activities among US internal medicine physicians.

Participants and Methods

A national cross-sectional survey was conducted from June 23, 2023, through May 8, 2024, targeting a random sample of practicing internal medicine physicians. Data on demographic characteristics and frequency of well-being activities (exercise, meditation, hobbies, volunteering, and social events) were collected. Of 1421 invited physicians, 629 (44.3%) responded. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used to assess levels of engagement and analyze associations between engagement frequency and physician demographic characteristics.

Results

Among the 629 respondents, engagement in well-being activities varied. The percentage of physicians reporting high engagement was 54.1% (339/627) for exercise (≥4× in past 7 days), 43.7% (272/623) for hobbies (≥4× in past 30 days), 32.6% (205/628) for meditation (≥1× in past 7 days), 31.5% (197/625) for volunteering (≥1× in past 30 days), and 26.9% (168/624) for social events (≥4× in past 30 days). Length of time in medical practice was significantly associated with higher odds of engaging in exercise and volunteering. Compared with White respondents, Black or African American respondents were more likely to volunteer and less likely to engage in hobbies. Asian respondents were more likely to meditate and less likely to attend social events and engage in hobbies. Differences by sex emerged only in meditation, with higher engagement among women.

Conclusion

Internal medicine physicians showed high engagement in various personal well-being activities with substantial demographic variations observed. Our findings underscore the importance of considering individual physician characteristics when designing initiatives to enhance physician well-being and reduce burnout.