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Even Heroes Need Help: The Impact of COVID-19 on Physicians Already at Risk for Burnout

In: Organizational Communication and Technology in the Time of Coronavirus

Author

Listed:
  • Ana M. Aquilar

    (The University of Texas at Austin)

  • Dawna I. Ballard

    (The University of Texas at Austin)

Abstract

We begin this story in the same year that the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, by focusing on a medical crisis: The Association of American Medical Colleges estimated that, by 2032, the United States would have a deficit of physicians (from 46,900 to 122,000) across all specialties. A rapidly aging population, a stagnant rate of new physicians, and an alarming rate of turnover have all contributed to a serious problem that has been compounded in light of COVID-19. Amidst a backdrop of stark deficiencies in resources (e.g., a lack of personal protective equipment and ventilators), physicians have largely been offered symbolic (rather than material or policy-based) support. In this chapter, we interrogate the public celebrations of their sacrifice and active framing of physicians as “heroes” in light of ongoing threats to their work quality and personal wellbeing. Rather than supernatural beings (as is suggested by the hero frame), physicians are employees who—under normal circumstances—attempt to manage despite limited resources. In framing healthcare workers as heroes, their institutions and the general public place additional, moral-based expectations on a system already teetering on failure.

Suggested Citation

  • Ana M. Aquilar & Dawna I. Ballard, 2022. "Even Heroes Need Help: The Impact of COVID-19 on Physicians Already at Risk for Burnout," Springer Books, in: Larry D. Browning & Jan-Oddvar Sørnes & Peer Jacob Svenkerud (ed.), Organizational Communication and Technology in the Time of Coronavirus, chapter 0, pages 327-347, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-030-94814-6_17
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-94814-6_17
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