Is Medicine Still Worth It? Physicians Reflect - And How PracticeMatch Helps You Find Purpose Again
Is a career in medicine still worth it? It’s a question that’s been circulating more than ever, especially in the wake of industry burnout, staffing shortages, and ever-changing healthcare policy. Recently, Becker’s ASC Review posed this question to 20 healthcare leaders, and the responses were refreshingly nuanced. While many acknowledged the current challenges, nearly all pointed to one clear truth: medicine is still one of the most meaningful, impactful, and purpose-driven careers out there.
At PracticeMatch, we hear similar sentiments every day. Many physicians tell us they’re not looking to leave medicine - they’re looking to reconnect with why they chose it in the first place. If you’re at a crossroads in your career or simply questioning what’s next, here are a few takeaways from Becker’s physician voices - and how PracticeMatch can help you chart a more fulfilling path forward.
“Yes, But…” - Why Medicine Is Still Worth It (With the Right Support)
Most physicians featured in the article say they would still recommend a career in medicine - but with caveats. Several noted that while the profession remains deeply meaningful, the delivery system often makes it harder to do the work well. Dr. Suzanne George put it plainly: "The system is currently broken, but the profession remains noble."
That tension is familiar to many physicians. A 2023 survey by Medscape found that 53% of physicians report feeling burned out, with top drivers including bureaucratic tasks, long hours, and lack of respect from administrators. You may still love practicing medicine, but you might not love your current schedule, administrative load, or lack of autonomy.
This is where PracticeMatch can help. We help physicians explore career options that better align with what they value most - whether it’s more control over their time, practicing in a mission-driven setting, or relocating to a community where their impact is felt more personally.
A Career That Evolves With You
A key theme from Becker’s article is that medicine can offer an evolving, flexible career. Dr. Latha Ganti encouraged physicians to view the field not as one rigid path, but as a wide range of possibilities—from clinical practice to research, administration, teaching, or advocacy.
The data supports this evolution. According to the AMA, nearly 40% of physicians plan to change roles within the next one to three years, often in search of more balance, growth opportunities, or better alignment with their values.
At PracticeMatch, we’ve helped thousands of physicians transition into new roles that better reflect their current stage of life and priorities. Whether that’s shifting from hospital-based practice to outpatient care, taking on a leadership position, or finding a part-time role to support better work-life balance, we have the tools and career resources to support you.
Community Matters - So Does Culture
Physicians also emphasized the importance of finding the right cultural fit. Dr. Ian Jenkins noted that the "team, support structure, and leadership" around you can make all the difference. And in today’s workforce, this isn’t just a preference—it’s a retention factor. Data from the American Medical Group Association shows that organizations with strong physician engagement and culture have significantly lower turnover rates.
If your current workplace doesn’t reflect your values or support your well-being, it’s okay to explore a change. Use PracticeMatch’s job search filters to sort positions by setting, schedule, employer type, and compensation model. Looking for a nonprofit clinic? A private group with partnership track? A teaching hospital where you can mentor the next generation? It’s all searchable - and we’re here to help you make sense of the options.
Your Career, Your Terms
What stood out most in Becker’s report is this: physicians still believe in the power and purpose of their profession. But they’re also realizing they don’t have to sacrifice their well-being to make a difference. And that’s where real change begins.
Whether you’re feeling burnout, ready for a new challenge, or just curious about what else is out there, PracticeMatch can help you take the next step, without compromising your values.
Start exploring today and see what’s possible when your next job aligns with your purpose.
Clint Rosser is the CEO of PracticeMatch. He has been with PracticeMatch since 2016. He has overseen several departments within PracticeMatch, including Inside Sales, Career Fairs, and the Client Services team. Clint, along with his team, has helped elevate PracticeMatch client services to move past a transactional vendor relationship to a full partnership with clients. This has allowed PracticeMatch to build stronger relationships and work with clients closer to ensure they can achieve the most ROI possible.