University of Chicago Medicine Earns Top Distinction for Reducing Physician Burnout

The University of Chicago Medicine has achieved the highest level of distinction as an American Medical Association (AMA) Joy in Medicine health organization for its efforts to reduce physician burnout and enhance professional fulfillment among its doctors. One of only two institutions in Illinois to receive gold-level recognition, UChicago Medicine was recognized for its initiatives addressing the systemic causes of burnout, including efficiency of practice environment, leadership, commitment, and teamwork.

Key Takeaways:

• UChicago Medicine earned gold-level recognition as an AMA Joy in Medicine health organization, one of only 20 institutions to achieve this distinction out of 109 recognized health organizations across the U.S.
• The university's efforts to reduce physician burnout have resulted in a burnout rate below the national average, with 45% of U.S. physicians experiencing burnout in 2023, down from 63% in 2021.
• UChicago Medicine's initiatives include the UC Well program, which provides accelerated access to mental health services, as well as clinical department well-being directors, internal peer coaching, and development programs for doctors.
• The university has implemented AI tools and internal improvement programs to streamline physician workflow and identify everyday challenges that affect physicians.
• Chairman of Psychiatry Seth Himelhoch, MD, MPH, played a pivotal role in expanding the behavioral health wellness team, adding an additional psychiatrist and psychotherapist to provide accelerated access to mental health services.
• Bree Andrews, MD, MPH, Chief Wellness and Vitality Officer and Associate Dean for Academic Advancement and Wellness, emphasized the importance of creating a culture that supports physician well-being and promotes joy in medicine.

Statistics:

• 109 health organizations across the U.S. were recognized by the AMA in 2025, with UChicago Medicine being one of the top 2 institutions in Illinois to earn gold-level recognition.
• The AMA preferred Joy in Medicine health organizations are leading the gains against physician burnout with nearly 63% of U.S. physicians experiencing burnout in 2021, down to 45% in 2023.
• The University of Chicago Medicine invested in the Chief Wellness Officer position during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when many healthcare organizations faced crisis.

Sources:

• "University of Chicago Medicine Earns Top Distinction for Reducing Physician Burnout" (Written By Sarah Richards)
• American Medical Association, (2025)
• American Medical Association. (2023). 2023 Census Data on Physician Burnout.
• University of Chicago Medicine. (2021). UC Well Program