Oncologist depression rates remained steady compared to 2023, hovering around 20%, according to a Medscape report.
The "Oncologist Burnout & Depression Report 2024," released March 29, surveyed 9,226 physicians across more than 29 specialities between July 5 and Oct. 9.
Oncologists indicated that depression impacts their interactions with patients, with 43% saying their depression makes them easily exasperated with patients and 26% said they are less careful with patient notes.
The top two contributors to depression were related to their work and burnout. Eighteen percent of oncologists said their burnout is so severe that they may leave medicine. The top contributors to burnout were too many bureaucratic tasks (59%), too many hours at work (47%) and insufficient compensation (37%).
Here are the top contributors to depression: (Note: respondents could pick more than one option.)
Job burnout: 62%
Physician's responsibilities: 46%
World events: 31%
My insecurity: 26%
Family issues: 25%
Romantic relationships: 22%
Health: 21%
Finances: 17%
My personality: 6%
Other: 5%