Resources for Doctors
This Doctors' Day, go beyond a simple thank you. Give your favorite physician resources on personal finance, burnout prevention, and mental health support—because they deserve more than just appreciation.
Financial Resources for Doctors
Doctors can take control of their financial future with tailored resources from the AMA, covering education funding, practice growth, and retirement planning. For expert investment and finance advice, The White Coat Investor delivers strategies designed just for physicians.
For a thorough guide to building a successful financial plan and navigating the market, Comprehensive Financial Planning Strategies for Doctors and Advisors offers expert insights from top consultants and Certified Medical Planners.
Additional Resources:
- Financial Residency by Ryan Inman is a free blog and podcast that provides actionable advice to help doctors manage student debt, insurance, and investments.
- MedLoans Organizer and Calculator is a free tool offered by the AAMC that is a comprehensive way for doctors and medical students to manage their student loans effectively.
Treating Physician Burnout
According to the AMA, physician burnout is a persistent concern, affecting doctors at all career stages. Dr. Kim Templeton at the University of Kansas School of Medicine and Health System researches burnout and its impact on minority groups, including women, older physicians, underrepresented minorities, and LGBTQ+ physicians.
The AMA is tackling physician burnout through advocacy efforts, addressing system-level causes, and equipping doctors with resources, such as the AMA STEPS Forward program.
With burnout rising due to the pandemic and inadequate medical software, the AMA is focusing on these critical issues to drive real solutions.
Hospitals are implementing AI to combat physician burnout and reduce after-hours documentation. For example, a recent study found that AI scribes could reduce burnout and cognitive overload.
Mental Health for Doctors
As doctors face increasing pressure on their mental health, there are campaigns and initiatives to provide support. The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act offers grants for mental health resources, and the Physician Support Line (888-409-0141) provides free, confidential support from peer physicians.
To manage stress regularly, the AMA offers coping strategies, like getting enough rest, healthy eating, and staying active. Limiting screen time and monitoring symptoms are important.
The Council of Graduate Schools and Jed Foundation developed a set of resources to inform future policies and programs addressing graduate students’ mental health and well-being. Council of Faculty and Academic Societies Board member Dr. Catherine Pips also wrote a book with strategies for creating a culture of wellness in hospitals and med schools.
Additional Resources:
- Project Healthy Minds is a digital platform offering curated mental health resources, including crisis hotlines, therapy options, and mindfulness tools, all designed to be easily accessible for busy professionals.
- The Care for Caregivers Program by Therapy Aid Coalition provides free and low-cost therapy to doctors and other healthcare professionals dealing with stress, burnout, or trauma.
- The Emotional PPE Project connects physicians and other healthcare workers with free mental health professionals who provide confidential support.
Discounts for Doctors
After working 50 to 80 hours a week and treating upwards of 140 patients a week, doctors deserve to treat themselves. Some of the biggest brands, from athletic wear to entertainment, food, and even UPS, offer special discounts to physicians.
The White Coat Investor included a detailed list of companies, such as Adidas, Samsung, and BP, including various physician discounts. Outside of personalized discounts for physicians, the AMA has a complete list of partners who offer discounts to private practice owners. Doctors can save some cash on the costly items a business needs, like new laptops or CME training courses. These benefits are available exclusively to AMA members.
Additional Resources:
- Exercise company Peloton offers healthcare workers a discount on select Peloton equipment and accessories, as well as extended free trial periods for their app.
- Doctors can enroll in Hertz’s rewards program with waived fees and enjoy exclusive discounts on car rentals.