Doctors in Private Practice: A Systematic Review of the Perceived Working Conditions, Psychological Health, and Patient Care

Hannah Karrlein (), Kevin Rui-Han Teoh, Marleen Reinke, Gail Kinman, Nicola Cordell and Joanna Yarker
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Hannah Karrlein: Affinity Health at Work, London SW12 9NW, UK
Kevin Rui-Han Teoh: Birkbeck Business School, University of London, London WC1E 7HX, UK
Marleen Reinke: Affinity Health at Work, London SW12 9NW, UK
Gail Kinman: Affinity Health at Work, London SW12 9NW, UK
Nicola Cordell: Cordell Health Ltd., Portsmouth PO6 3TH, UK
Joanna Yarker: Affinity Health at Work, London SW12 9NW, UK

Merits, 2025, vol. 5, issue 4, 1-20

Abstract: Medical doctors are at risk of poor mental health, linked to their working conditions. However, little distinction is made between private and public practice where working conditions differ. This review examines the relationship between perceived working conditions, psychological health, and patient care among doctors in private practice, considering how differences between private and public practice impact these outcomes and the implications of working across sectors. We conducted a systematic literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The search encompassed Academic Search Premier, Business Source Premier, PsycInfo, PsycArticles, and Medline. Included studies were coded in line with the Job Demands–Resources model. The initial search identified 309 papers, with 14 being selected for final full-text review. Higher job demands were associated with higher levels of burnout, while social resources, job crafting, and healthy coping mechanisms were linked with lower levels of burnout. Working in private practice was associated with higher demands. Doctors in private practice had more negative perceptions of performance, less satisfactory leadership, and a lack of feedback. However, private practice also offered better work–life balance, more control, and greater reward. Notably, no study was found that examined the implications of dual roles where doctors worked across both sectors, which is common. A clear definition of private practice as well as a more granular understanding of work-related risks posed to private practice and dual roles should be the focus of future research.

Keywords: systematic review; medical doctors; burnout; working conditions; patient care; occupational stress; workload; private practice (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: J L M (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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