How Much Do Doctors Work Each Week: A Comprehensive Guide

The typical workweek for a doctor can vary significantly based on their specialty, practice setting, and individual work arrangements. While some doctors work around 40 to 50 hours per week, others may log up to 70 or more hours depending on their role and work environment.

Primary Care Physicians

Primary Care Physicians typically work between 40 and 50 hours a week. This schedule often includes some evening or weekend shifts, reflecting the need to be available for urgent appointments and emergencies outside traditional working hours.

Specialists

Specialists, such as surgeons or high-demand specialists, may work longer hours, often reaching 50 to 70 hours per week. This is especially true in surgical fields where the demands for on-call coverage and extended work hours are common.

Medical Residents

Residents in training typically work between 60 and 80 hours per week, with extended shifts and on-call duties. This intensive period is crucial for their professional development and patient care experience.

The workload for doctors is influenced by several factors, including on-call responsibilities, patient load, and administrative duties. Despite the substantial hours, not all doctors follow the same schedule. The demands of the job can vary widely based on individual practices, hospital policies, and personal preferences.

Historical Context and Residency Reforms

Historically, the workweek for doctors, particularly residents, was even more demanding. For example, during my internship (1975-1976), as an intern, my average workweek was 95 to 110 hours, with many nights completely without sleep. Despite such intense hours, my earning was as low as $10,500, resulting in a very low hourly wage compared to minimum wage standards.

Residency programs have since been limited to 80 hours a week. This change, while aimed at increasing resident well-being and safety, faced resistance from hospital administrators due to the loss of available "cheap labor." To maintain hospital operations, administrators had to hire new staff with labor rights and protections.

Today, the workweeks for doctors continue to vary significantly, with many younger physicians preferring longer hours to build their careers, while older physicians often seek more manageable schedules to reduce their workload.

Conclusion

The workweek for doctors is a complex issue influenced by numerous factors. Understanding these dynamics can help both doctors and healthcare administrators make informed decisions that balance professional duties with personal well-being.