Working Conditions for Physicians and surgeonsMany physicians—primarily general and family practitioners, general internists, pediatricians, ob/gyns, and psychiatrists—work in small private offices or clinics, often assisted by a small staff of nurses and other administrative personnel. Increasingly, physicians are practicing in groups or healthcare organizations that provide backup coverage and allow for more time off. These physicians often work as part of a team coordinating care for a population of patients; they are less independent than solo practitioners of the past. Surgeons and anesthesiologists typically work in well-lighted, sterile environments while performing surgery and often stand for long periods. Most work in hospitals or in surgical outpatient centers. Many physicians and surgeons work long, irregular hours. Almost one-third of physicians worked 60 hours or more a week in 2002. Physicians and surgeons must travel frequently between office and hospital to care for their patients. Those who are on call deal with many patients� concerns over the phone and may make emergency visits to hospitals or nursing homes. More information on Physicians and surgeons from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Physicians and surgeons occupation Number of Physicians and surgeons in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Physicians and surgeons Working conditions for Physicians and surgeons Significant points for Physicians and surgeons Training requirements for Physicians and surgeons Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |