I recently came across a fascinating article by Dr. Ruth Williams, with valuable contributions from Dr. Monisha Vora, which sparked a thought-provoking discussion on the potential benefits of transitioning to a 4-day work week. As strong, dedicated physician women, we've dedicated countless hours to our education and professional development. Now, it's time to explore how we can prioritize our own well-being while continuing to provide excellent care to our patients.

Imagine for a moment condensing your work week to just 4 days. What would that mean for you? How would it feel to have that extra day to invest in yourself, your family, and the activities that bring you joy? It's an enticing idea, isn't it?

Interestingly, a recent systemic meta-analysis conducted in 2022 examined the effects of reduced work hours across various sectors. While we don't have specific studies focused on physicians just yet, the findings are promising. Workers who experienced reduced hours while retaining their salaries reported a positive correlation with improved life quality, enhanced sleep patterns, and reduced stress levels. It's not difficult to imagine how these benefits could translate to happier and healthier physicians, ultimately leading to an improved quality of care.

Now, negotiating a 4-day work week may seem like a daunting task, but it's important to remember that we deserve a work-life balance that prioritizes our well-being.

Here are a few tips to help you navigate the negotiation process and potentially secure a higher salary:

1. Research and Preparation: Before entering into negotiations, gather relevant data on local and nationwide salaries in your field. Network with your colleagues in other practices to understand how their contracts are structured. Should you stay salaried with a bonus structure, or consider going collections/productivity based? In my experience, if you are considering cutting back, going collections based may make more sense if you have an established practice. This knowledge will strengthen your position and provide evidence to support your request.
2. Highlight the Benefits: Clearly communicate the potential positive outcomes of transitioning to a 4-day work week, such as increased productivity and improved patient satisfaction. Emphasize the long-term advantages for both you and your patients (and perhaps your staff as well, I’m sure they would love a full day off!).
3. Quantify Your Value: Demonstrate your unique contributions and the value you bring to your practice or institution. Highlight your accomplishments, patient outcomes, and any additional responsibilities you have taken on. Get the numbers of your RVUs, collections, number of new patients you are seeing etc. This information will reinforce your worth and justify the request for a higher salary.
4. Be Flexible: Consider alternative arrangements that could still provide the desired work-life balance while accommodating the needs of your organization. This flexibility can foster a collaborative environment for negotiations.
5. Confidence and Assertiveness: Approach the negotiation process with confidence and assertiveness, advocating for your needs and goals. Remember, you are a highly skilled and dedicated professional, and your request is valid.

Negotiating a higher salary and a 4-day work week may require some effort, but it is an investment in your overall health and well-being. As physician women, we have the power to create positive change not only in our own lives but also in the healthcare industry as a whole.

Let's support each other in finding ways to enhance our personal and professional lives. I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic and any experiences you may have had with negotiating work hours.

Here's to a healthier, more balanced future!

In health,

Shani Esparaz M.D.

Double Board-Certified Ophthalmologist, Lifestyle Medicine Specialist, Health & Wellness Coach

Source: Williams, R. The Case for the 4-Day Workweek…or a “Fore-Day” Workweek. Eyenet Magazine May 2023 Edition. Accessed May 2023.

Source: Voglino G, Savatteri A, Gualano MR, Catozzi D, Rousset S, Boietti E, Bert F, Siliquini R. How the reduction of working hours could influence health outcomes: a systematic review of published studies. BMJ Open. 2022 Apr 1;12(4):e051131. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051131. PMID: 35365508; PMCID: PMC8977802.