Rethinking shift work: Why "job sharing" is the key to happier, healthier doctors

In the realm of shift-based health care, the term “job sharing” doesn’t technically exist—after all, shifts aren’t a single continuous job to split. Yet, still, a full-time workload is considered the norm, and the concept of dividing the workload among multiple physicians rather than relying on one overburdened individual feels revolutionary in a field where burnout is rampant.

For independent contractors, who often enjoy the flexibility to choose when and how they work, the idea of splitting shifts among a group of part-time providers should be a natural fit. Imagine a world where three doctors, each working part-time, fill a single role traditionally handled by one full-time physician. Not only does this reduce the mental and physical toll on each provider, but it also creates an environment where patient care is less likely to suffer due to fatigue or burnout.

One common concern with distributing shifts among multiple physicians is the risk of medical errors during patient handoffs. Handoffs are critical moments in health care—an opportunity to relay essential details about patient care and ensure continuity. Poor communication during these transitions has been linked to adverse outcomes, making it essential to approach shift design thoughtfully.

The goal of a “job sharing” model in shift work isn’t to fragment shifts or increase handoffs unnecessarily but to allocate whole shifts to individual providers who are rested, engaged, and fully present. A well-rested physician starting their 12-hour shift is far more likely to deliver high-quality care and minimize errors than an overworked counterpart at the end of their rope.

Rather than dividing single shifts, the emphasis should be on dividing the responsibility for a schedule—assigning complete, manageable blocks to multiple physicians in a rotation. This way, handoffs occur only when necessary, with time and attention dedicated to ensuring they are seamless and comprehensive. By respecting the natural flow of shift work while prioritizing physician well-being, we can safeguard continuity of care and reduce the risk of errors.

The truth is, we don’t need to “share” jobs; we need to rethink how we distribute shifts. This small yet powerful shift (pun intended) in perspective could revolutionize how we approach work-life balance in health care.

With regard to distribution of shifts, not all physicians are created equal when it comes to energy levels and productivity throughout the day—or night. While some thrive in the quiet stillness of the early morning hours, others perform their best during the late-night hustle. This variation in individual physiology and circadian rhythms is often overlooked in traditional shift scheduling, leading to unnecessary stress, reduced performance, and quicker burnout.

In a job-sharing model, there’s an opportunity to match physicians to shifts that align with their natural energy patterns. A “morning person” may shine on the early shift, energized to tackle the day, while a “night owl” could feel right at home during an overnight rotation. By respecting these differences, we can create schedules that not only optimize performance but also enhance job satisfaction.

Additionally, assigning shifts based on energy management can reduce the cognitive load and emotional toll of working against one’s natural rhythm. A physician who feels aligned with their schedule is more likely to remain focused, engaged, and empathetic with patients, ultimately contributing to better outcomes.

The beauty of this approach is its simplicity: when leaders allow doctors to work shifts that suit their strengths and preferences, organizations can support both their workforce and the patients they serve. It’s a win-win that recognizes physicians as humans—not interchangeable cogs in a machine.

Maureen Gibbons has transitioned from a fulfilling career in emergency medicine to one where her skills, training, and passion for teaching yield unparalleled returns—physically, emotionally, and financially.

With over 25 years of mentoring experience across her roles as an athletic trainer, triathlon coach, sports nutritionist, and physician, Maureen founded Active Medical Solutions, a lifestyle medical practice. She also developed a simple yet powerful EMR designed for asynchronous care.

Dr. Moe’s own journey—marked by both successes and setbacks—has created a space for her to guide physicians and other high-level professionals toward improved health and transformative career paths.