A concerning national survey indicates that one out of every ten emergency physicians in Canada has left their specialty, with many more reducing their hours due to burnout. The study, based on a 2025 cross-country survey of over 400 emergency medicine doctors, highlights a critical issue within Canada's healthcare system.
The prevailing sentiment among respondents was that the healthcare system is fundamentally broken. This sentiment is leading to an "alarming exodus" of physicians, particularly affecting women and younger doctors who report higher rates of burnout. Nearly half of the surveyed physicians have reduced their clinical hours, while 20 percent have taken time off. Researchers warn that high levels of physician burnout can compromise patient safety and the quality of care.
These findings come at a time when millions of Canadians lack access to primary care, and emergency departments are struggling with chronic overcrowding and staff shortages. The Canadian Institute for Health Information reported that in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, one in ten patients admitted to emergency departments spent over 48 hours waiting for an inpatient bed. The survey results underscore the urgent need for systemic changes to address the crisis in emergency medicine and support the well-being of healthcare professionals.
