U.S. leads in primary care physician burnout among 10 developed nations, study says

Medical Economics November 20, 2025
Richard Payerchin, Todd Shryock

Key Takeaways

The U.S. has the highest PCP burnout rate among 10 developed nations, with 43% of doctors affected, mainly due to administrative burdens.
Administrative tasks are a primary burnout cause, with 44% of U.S. physicians citing it, while patient interactions are a lesser factor.
Emotional distress and intentions to leave the field are prevalent among burned-out PCPs, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Feelings of being undervalued contribute to burnout, with 17% of U.S. physicians citing this as a factor.

Commonwealth Fund survey finds administrative burdens, feeling undervalued contribute to physician feelings.

The United States is the world leader (PCPs) in 10 developed nations, according to new findings from the Commonwealth Fund.

“The Causes and Impacts of Burnout...

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