Memorial Healthcare System Honored by American Medical Association for Promoting Physician Well-being

Memorial Healthcare System has earned Bronze level recognition from the American Medical Association (AMA) as a Joy in Medicine™ health organization. The prestigious distinction is awarded to organizations that meet the rigorous criteria of the Joy in the Medicine Health System Recognition Program, honoring national leaders dedicated to improving the well-being and professional fulfillment of physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) through proven initiatives. Memorial is one of only 62 health systems nationwide to receive this honor as part of the 2024 cohort.

“Our recognition as a Joy in Medicine™ health organization is deeply meaningful to all of us at Memorial,” said Holly Neville, MD, associate chief medical officer and program director of General Surgery Residency at Memorial Healthcare System. “As both a physician and a leader, I’ve seen firsthand how vital it is to create a supportive environment where doctors can thrive. This honor reflects our ongoing commitment to listening to our physicians and APPs, addressing their challenges, and celebrating their successes, so they can continue delivering exceptional care to our patients.”

The COVID-19 pandemic strained health systems globally, with AMA research showing physician burnout nearly doubling to 62.8% from 2020 to 2021. With physician burnout dropping below 50% nationwide for the first time since 2020, Memorial remains committed to providing essential support doctors need to thrive and deliver on their health goals.

To enhance physician and APP well-being and address burnout, Memorial has launched multiple listening campaigns led by executive teams to encourage open, two-way communication. Senior staff, including Chief Medical Officers, regularly meet with physicians, APPs and other staff to discuss concerns and celebrate achievements. In 2022, the general surgery residency program introduced a 'Debrief Committee,' where senior surgical staff meet with physicians involved in complex patient cases to provide support and guidance.

The AMA achievement highlights Memorial’s commitment to addressing system-level drivers of work-related burnout and showcases strengths in leadership, assessment, teamwork, support, and the efficiency of the practice environment.

“A national movement is gaining momentum to transform health care work systems and fix the root causes of physician burnout. Health organizations that have earned the AMA’s Joy in Medicine recognition are leading this movement with bold visions for redesigned clinical systems to foster professional well-being and support quality care,” said AMA President Bruce A. Scott, MD.

Learn more about the AMA Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program.