Baystate Health, UMass Chan Honored by American Medical Assoc.

SPRINGFIELD — The American Medical Assoc. (AMA) recently announced that Baystate Health and UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate have been honored with the prestigious bronze-level recognition as a Joy in Medicine Health Organization.

“We often think of well-being when it comes to our patients, but physician well-being is equally important,” said Dr. Katie Jobbins, associate professor of the UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate Department of Medicine and co-chair of the Baystate Medical Practices Wellness Council. “Clinicians who feel supported by their organizations are in a position to provide the best care. This recognition amplifies our teams’ efforts to reduce physician burnout, and we will continue and expand on that commitment moving forward.”

After peaking during the COVID-19 pandemic at levels higher than ever before measured, the physician burnout rate in the U.S. has dipped under 50% for the first time in four years. Despite recent progress, burnout levels remain much higher among physicians than workers in other industries, and continued efforts are essential to fighting the causes of burnout in the healthcare workforce.

“The physician burnout crisis that has swept across the healthcare workforce demands urgent action, and the AMA is proud to honor health organizations that have joined a national movement to transform health-delivery systems by promoting professional well-being as an essential element to meet patients’ need for high-quality care,” AMA President Dr. Bruce Scott said. “Each health organization that has earned the AMA’s Joy in Medicine recognition is a national leader in this movement, with bold visions for redesigned clinical systems to foster professional well-being and support quality care.”

Organizations that earn recognition from the program are designated with an achievement level based on their documented investment in prioritizing physician well-being. Each level — bronze, silver, and gold — is composed of six demonstrated competencies in commitment, assessment, leadership, efficiency of practice environment, teamwork, and support. Recognition as a Joy in Medicine health organization is valid for two years.