A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal highlights alarming burnout rates among emergency room physicians, with 48% reducing clinical hours and 10% leaving the specialty.

The 2025 survey of 410 emergency medicine doctors across provinces (excluding Nunavut and Yukon) found that 65% scored high on emotional exhaustion or depersonalization.

Women and younger doctors reported higher burnout levels, while systemic issues like understaffing, unrealistic expectations, and overcrowded ERs were cited as major stressors.

Participants described a 'broken health care system' and 'insurmountable workplace challenges,' with 20% taking time off from emergency work.

The study underscores long-term impacts of pandemic-era pressures, noting that burnout and depression rates among Canadian doctors remain elevated five years post-COVID.Experts warn that without systemic reforms, the crisis could worsen, threatening the sustainability of emergency medicine in Canada.