No one has a greater appreciation for how hard surgeons work than those of us here at NexGen Surgical. Not only is the work mentally and emotionally taxing, but the hours are long and working conditions can be grueling. Vacation time is essential for surgeons, but does it always provide the disconnect needed from the operating room to fully relax and recharge?
Issues with Surgeon Vacation Time
According to the Medscape article “Profiles in Happiness: Which Physicians Enjoy Life Most?”, 32.5 percent of surgeons take only two weeks off per year, at most. Considering that many surgeons are self-employed, it is easy to understand why there are so many barriers to taking vacations. Whether surgeons feel their caseload is too heavy to take time off or they are unable to find coverage for their absence, it is often difficult for them to take vacations. One of our top goals at NexGen Surgical is to help surgeons who find themselves in this situation and empower them to take the time off that they deserve.
Risks of Not Taking Vacation Time
A World Health Organization study published in May 2021 connected long working hours to an increased risk of death from stroke and heart disease. With stress being a primary cause of stroke and heart disease, this connection is obvious and is clearly a risk for surgeons. Additionally, a lack of vacation time can lead to burnout, which can cause depression, anxiety, loss of appetite and other mental health disorders. The temptation to muscle through the stress of working long hours is real for surgeons, but the fact is that this type of mentality can lead to serious health risks. Taking time off, or slowing down in practice, is not a selfish act—nor does it mean a surgeon has lost his or her edge. Even the planning and the anticipation leading up to a vacation can have positive health benefits.
Making the Most of Your Time Off
Since time off can be rare for surgeons, making the most of your time off is important. You should not be on call during your time off because this limits your ability to travel and truly disconnect from your responsibilities. You should also be able to rest easy knowing your shifts are covered and your patients are cared for. Disconnecting and being completely present while on vacation or during time off is important for achieving a rejuvenating experience. Whether you are traveling across the world or spending your vacation at home, disconnecting is one of the key elements of being able to truly relax.
Moving Forward with a Better Work/Life Balance
Sometimes, the only way for surgeons to achieve a better work-life balance is to leave their current practice. This allows for them to start a new position with a more flexible schedule and more time off. Consider your options carefully when applying for any new surgical job and make your vacation part of the negotiations. Alternatively, find a position like those we offer at NexGen Surgical that allows for ultimate flexibility and plenty of time off.
Enjoy More Time Off with NexGen Surgical
NexGen Surgical is a smart choice for surgeons who are tired of the busy pace of their bustling practices and are looking for a slower, more meaningful way of life. As a NexGen surgeon, you can expect the following:
- Will work two weeks out of the month while enjoying no call on your time off
- Do not have to live in the area where you work
- Will have an opportunity that is built around your desires and requirements
- Earn competitive compensation.
Start enjoying more time off where you can truly disconnect and relax by calling NexGen Surgical today at 844.592.0802.
