Another factor, in my opinion, is the inevitable corrosive effect of the loss of professional autonomy on the sense of responsibity. Responsibility and freedom are inextricably yoked. With the decline of the latter due to cookbook medicine, socialized payment systems, and declining respect for physician authority, then younger physicians do indeed feel less responsibility.

As a utilization and quality reviewer, I hear shocking comments from some of the younger docs that reflect a disavowal of reponsibility for the care process, showing a view of themselves as just another member of the team without real responsibility for the actual net result as far as getting things done.

I do support the work hour restrictions as I don’t think we can teach people to be humane to others while treating them inhumanely. I though so when a resident (with no hour restrictions) and am glad to see the next generation to not have to put up with that masochistic BS. I don’t think that the restrictions are the cause of declining professionalism–it was already in place due to even more powerful forces.

Underlying all the bullshit, this is why these old guys are advocating for “the good ol’ days.” They are bitter, and had to do it…and love to see people suffer, because they had to.

I would not want one of these physicians to treat me, or anyone I care about. At their core, they are selfish and dishonest. Hardly a demonstration of professionalism!!