As physicians, the terms health, wellness, and wellbeing are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct aspects of a physician’s professional and personal life, according to Michael H. Gendel, MD, Medical Director Emeritus of the Colorado Physician Health Program.
Gendel writes that “when all three are recognized and nurtured, we are not only healthier as individuals but also provide better care to our patients. Ignoring any one of these can have profound effects on both physicians and the quality of patient care we provide.”
He describes health as more than just the absence of disease. For physicians, maintaining good physical condition is necessary due to long work hours and mental strain. However, many physicians tend to overlook their own health needs in favor of patient care. According to Gendel, “when physicians neglect their health – whether it’s regular check-ups, sleep or proper nutrition – performance inevitably suffers. Even minor physical health issues, when left unchecked, can impair our ability to focus, diagnose and treat our patients effectively, ultimately compromising patient safety.” He adds that emotional or mental health issues such as stress or symptoms of anxiety can also impact medical practice and overall wellbeing.
Gendel emphasizes the importance of communication about these issues: “It’s so important to talk with a spouse, friends or our doctors about these matters.”
Wellness is defined by Gendel as an ongoing process involving good practices and habits that help manage stress and prevent burnout. This includes attention to physical, mental, social, financial, spiritual, intellectual and professional aspects of life. He states that “in a profession as demanding as medicine, wellness practices are not indulgent; they are essential to sustaining longevity in the field.” Physician wellness programs have been developed in response to this need for systematic support. Gendel notes that “physicians who invest in wellness are not only more resilient but more empathetic and present for their patients,” which contributes positively to healthcare environments.
Regarding wellbeing, Gendel describes it as encompassing psychological, emotional and spiritual dimensions. While health and wellness may be measured objectively or managed through specific actions, wellbeing is subjective and relates closely to meaning and purpose in life. He observes that a physician may appear healthy and maintain good wellness routines yet still lack fulfillment or experience emotional exhaustion.
“Wellbeing is tied to meaning and purpose in both our professional and personal lives,” he writes. Without it, physicians risk becoming disconnected from their work or themselves.
Gendel points out that studies show doctors often misjudge their own state of wellbeing. Tools such as the Mayo Physician Wellbeing Index are available online for self-assessment; however,“there is no substitute for asking for feedback from loved ones (or others that know you well) concerning how they view your state of wellbeing,” he says.
