Why Doctors Work 12-Hour Rosters

Doctors exhausted by 12-hour shifts are not alone. Story after story across the country where stress is evident.  The reason long hours are experienced in Australian healthcare  hospitals depend on strain hospitals face.  However, there are strategies to optimise your well-being and productivity during these extended shifts.

Understanding the Environment:

The Necessity of Long Shifts in Australian Hospitals

As a doctor in Australia, you’re likely no stranger to the 12-hour shift. These extended hours are a prevalent reality in our healthcare system. But have you ever stopped to consider the reasons behind them? Understanding the driving forces behind long shifts can empower you to navigate them more effectively.

• Staff Shortages:
  

  A significant factor contributing to extended shifts is the ongoing shortage of medical professionals in Australia. As a result this puts a strain on existing staff, often leading to longer hours to ensure adequate patient care.

• Workload Demands:
  

  The Australian healthcare system caters to a diverse population with complex medical needs. This results in heavier workloads for doctors, necessitating longer shifts to meet patient demands as well as fulfill administrative duties.

• Shift Coverage and Continuity of Care:
  

  12-hour shifts can provide a degree of continuity of care for patients, especially in critical areas. Having the same doctor oversee a patient for a longer period can be beneficial, but it also extends individual work hours.

• Training and Development:

  For doctors in training, longer shifts can offer valuable exposure to a wider range of cases and procedures. While beneficial for learning, this can contribute to fatigue and burnout.

  

Beyond the Hours: Strategies for Optimizing Your 12-Hour Shift

While the reality of long shifts persists, there are ways to make them work for you and your well-being. Here are strategies to consider:

• Prioritization and Time Management: Develop a system for prioritising tasks and allocating time effectively throughout your shift. Utilise to-do lists and schedule breaks to maintain focus and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Collaboration and Delegation: Don’t be afraid to collaborate with colleagues and delegate tasks appropriately. Effective communication with nurses and other healthcare professionals can streamline your workload and free up valuable time.

• Meal Planning and Hydration: Packing nutritious meals and snacks ensures you have the energy to sustain long hours. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining focus and preventing fatigue.

• Strategic Breaks: Short breaks throughout your shift are essential for mental and physical rejuvenation. Even a 10-minute walk or meditation session can significantly improve alertness and concentration.

• Prioritising Sleep: Getting sufficient quality sleep outside of work hours is paramount. Develop healthy sleep routines and prioritise rest for optimal cognitive function and emotional well-being.

• Advocacy and Support: If you find yourself consistently struggling with long shifts, don’t hesitate to advocate for change. Discuss workload concerns with your superiors and explore options for schedule adjustments or team support.

Looking Forward: The Future of Work for Australian Doctors

Australian healthcare is constantly evolving. Initiatives are underway to address the issue of long working hours for doctors. Here’s a glimpse into what the future might hold:

• Technological Advancements: The implementation of telehealth services and electronic medical records can streamline processes and potentially reduce administrative burdens associated with long shifts.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Hospitals are increasingly exploring flexible work models like part-time options or job-sharing arrangements to cater to a diverse doctor workforce with varying needs.

• Improved Training and Resourcing: Investing in programs that attract and retain medical professionals can alleviate staffing shortages and reduce the pressure on current doctors, leading to potentially shorter and more manageable shifts.

By understanding the rationale behind 12-hour shifts, employing effective strategies during these extended periods, and staying informed about potential changes in the healthcare landscape, Australian doctors can streamline the current system while remaining hopeful for a future with a more manageable workload.