Electronic health records: Is mindfulness the solution?

M edicine is a demanding profession that requires a substantial commitment in education, work hours, and dedication to patient health and professional development. Beginning with their residency, physicians carry an enormous responsibility for the care and treatment of their patients. As William Osler summarized, “The physician’s challenge is the curing of disease, educating the people in the laws of health, and preventing the spread of plagues and pestilences.” Although the work of physicians has always been challenging, levels of physician burnout have risen dramatically and erode patient care, professional conduct, and the physician-patient relationship. As Dr. Ronald Epstein explained,

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