Episode 1: Why more physicians are committing suicide

Abstract

"400 physicians commit suicide in the United States every year. Why are more and more people in the medical field experiencing burnout... and even contemplating suicide? More importantly, what can be done about it? These are questions Dr. David Rothenberger has been trying to answer.

Dr. Rothenberger's career as a Colon and Rectal Surgeon at the University of Minnesota has spanned over three decades. He led the department as chair for four years. In 2017, he was appointed as the Medical School's special adviser for physician wellbeing. We discuss growing efforts to raise awareness about and improve the mental wellbeing of healthcare professionals."