Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, hematology/oncology physicians who specialize in the care of patients with cancer reported high levels of symptoms consistent with burnout, including frustration (78%), emotional exhaustion (69%), and work dissatisfaction (50%). (!) The difficulties associated with COVID-19 in oncology are significant as patients are often older, immunocompro-mised, and have other co-morbidities that put them at increased risk for infection and death. Practice changes during the pandemic have included treatment delays and modifications, clinical trial suspensions or delays, isolation of patients without family support, and increased use of telehealth care. Unfortunately, all of these issues have led to an increase in pandemic-related stress, which may compromise clinician wellness.
In addition to patient-related issues, personal issues such as financial...