AMGA: Physician turnover still high in 2013

(HealthDay)—For the second year running, physician turnover remains at the highest rate since 2005, according to a report published by the American Medical Group Association (AMGA).

According to data from the AMGA and Cejka Search, the average turnover rate was 6.8 percent in 2013, unchanged from 2012. Furthermore, turnover was 9.4 percent among advanced practice clinicians, including physician assistants and nurse practitioners, representing an 18 percent reduction from 11.6 percent in 2012.

In addition to these findings, an acceleration in physician retirement was identified. Retirement as a reason for separation increased to 18 percent in 2013 (an increase of 50 percent), the highest ever reported.

"The survey findings provide evidence that recruitment and retention continue to be major challenges for health systems," Donald W. Fisher, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of AMGA, said in a statement. "To rise to these challenges, medical groups are demonstrating remarkable leadership by investing in new staffing and delivery models, building and nurturing their teams in a strategic way, and making accountable care work for their patients and their communities."