Commonwealth Fund November 20, 2025
Toplines
More than two in five U.S. primary care physicians report burnout — one of the highest rates among 10 high-income countries
Administrative burden is the top reason U.S. primary care physicians cite for their burnout
Introduction
Despite the critical role of primary care physicians (PCPs) in preventive care and chronic disease management, PCPs lack support for their mental and physical well-being, resulting in pervasive burnout.1 Physicians report emotional exhaustion and reduced personal accomplishment that, if left unaddressed, will undermine the performance of our health systems.2
In the United States, PCP burnout contributes to $260 million in excess health spending every year, largely from high turnover forcing practices to replace clinicians...







