Setting Boundaries to Prevent Burnout With Dr Neubauer

Burnout remains a significant concern among oncologists, with approximately 60% of oncologists reporting burnout, according to an American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) survey.¹ For clinicians early in their oncology careers, recognizing the risk of burnout and establishing healthy professional boundaries is particularly important.

In this episode of Community Corner, Marcus Neubauer, MD, of The US Oncology Network, discusses practical strategies oncologists can use to prevent and recognize burnout throughout their careers. He emphasizes the importance of becoming engaged not only in patient care, but also in the broader practice and community to help clinicians avoid feeling isolated.

Neubauer also highlights the role of recognition and appreciation in maintaining professional well-being. While clinicians should make an effort to recognize their colleagues, he notes that receiving appreciation for their own work is equally important. A lack of recognition over time can contribute to dissatisfaction and burnout.

Maintaining work-life balance is another key component of burnout prevention, according to Neubauer. He encourages oncologists to establish clear boundaries around their work and find ways to prevent administrative responsibilities, such as completing notes, from consistently extending late into the evening. Seeking support to improve organization and workflow can help clinicians protect time outside of practice.

Neubauer also reflects on how expectations around medicine have evolved across generations. Rather than viewing oncology as a consuming way of life, he encourages younger physicians to prioritize balance early in their careers, arguing that maintaining boundaries can help reduce the risk of burnout over time.

REFERENCES

1. Schenkel C, Levit LA, Kirkwood K, et al. State of professional well-being, satisfaction, and career plans among US oncologists in 2023. JCO Oncol Adv. 2025;2(1):e2400010. doi:10.1200/OA.24.00010