Physicians and other healthcare professionals are feeling the effects of Covid-19, according to a survey released this week by CHG Healthcare.

It found that 7% had been laid off and 6% had been furloughed amid the Covid-19 crisis. The study included more than 1,285 physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

“Struggling to work and worrying about the future are challenges for millions during this Covid-19 crisis, and these results show that the medical profession is impacted as much as many other areas,” CHG Healthcare CEO Scott Beck said. “Few would expect rising unemployment rates for doctors during a public health crisis, but the numbers who are out of work or working less are shockingly high.”

When asked about employment status, here is how respondents answered:

• 50% were working full-time
• 20% were working locum tenens
• 10% employed part time
• 7% were recently laid off
• 6% were recently furloughed
• 3% were partially retired
• 2% were unable to work
• 1% were fully retired
• 1% were in a residency or fellowship

One healthcare worker told CHG, “I love working in healthcare. In the beginning we were in great need. It has been very hurtful that for three weeks we were needed so much and after that we were told to take PTO and then get our hours cut. I am grateful to have a job, but I wish things were better.”

Of those still working, 74% were working less today due to the pandemic; only 11% were working more than before. The primary reason for the decrease in work was lower patient volumes, cited by 43% of respondents; in addition, the pause in elective care was cited by 26%.

“In smaller categories some PAs and NPs mentioned being furloughed so the physician(s) in their practices can see the limited number of patients coming in. Some providers also mentioned their age or being immunocompromised as the reason they needed to decrease their workload,” according to the report.

The survey found that 41% had not treated Covid-19 patients.

CHG’s report also asked about anxiety; 72% reported experiencing slightly or significantly more general anxiety in their lives.

More information on the report is available online.