A new study finds that hospital acquisitions of private physician practices significantly raise prices by reducing competition, prompting calls for greater antitrust scrutiny and state-level efforts to curb medical expenses.

Physicians negotiating employment contracts should ensure call duties and compensation are clearly defined—since requirements vary widely, can change with staffing shifts, and are often left vague by employers—to avoid excessive, uncompensated workloads.

A study of nearly 72,000 U.S. physicians found that those with more unsolicited patient complaints were significantly more likely to receive larger nonresearch industry payments, highlighting the need for stronger conflict-of-interest oversight and professionalism interventions.

Doximity’s 2025 Physician Compensation Report shows a modest 3.7 percent pay increase from 2023 to 2024 amid persistent inflation, widening gender and specialty pay gaps, declining private practice, and mounting burnout, leaving many physicians overworked, underpaid and questioning their future in medicine.

A report shows that physicians are working more and producing significantly higher work relative value units than in 2023, but reimbursement is lagging behind productivity gains amid rising expenses, staffing shortages, and growing concerns over insurance coverage losses and shifting care patterns.

 

While systemic changes are essential to reduce physician burnout, individual self-care and resilience-building remain crucial protective strategies, supported by organizational efforts to remove stigma and create environments that foster well-being and sustainable recovery.

Despite working harder and delivering more services since the pandemic, American doctors face declining revenue per unit of work due to stagnant reimbursements and rising costs, contributing to increased medical practice bankruptcies, shifts toward cash-based elective procedures, and growing corporatization of healthcare that may reduce patient access.

Podiatrists recommend choosing supportive sandals with wide toe boxes, adjustable straps, and arch support to prevent foot fatigue and discomfort during warm-weather wear.

Barefoot shoes, which mimic the feel of being barefoot while providing some protection, have surged in popularity for their potential to improve stability, strengthen foot muscles, and enhance balance, though podiatrists caution they offer less support than traditional running shoes and should be adopted gradually.

Wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes with a wide toe area and proper arch support is essential for long-term foot, posture, and joint health, and modern orthopedic options now combine comfort with style.