Physicians, researchers, and health care leaders from across the United States gathered in Boston, MA, for the fifth American Conference on Physician Health™ (ACPH) in September 2025. ACPH 2025 set a record with over 740 attendees and 211 research and innovation abstracts. The theme, "Inspire, innovate, implement: Systemic solutions to strengthen physician well-being," resonated strongly with both organizers and participants, creating a lasting impact that extended beyond the conference and into the broader physician well-being community.
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Quote taken from "Stop the stigma: Improve physician access to confidential mental health care" by Stefanie Simmons, MD, FACEP - learn more in the ACPH abstract book
Sponsored jointly by the American Medical Association, Mayo Clinic, and Stanford Medicine, ACPH 2025 provided a platform for open conversations, collaborative problem-solving, and meaningful connections. Conference presentations showcased research findings and real-world experiences, fostering a sense of shared purpose and unity in advancing physician health.
Connection and Collaboration
From interactive workshops to engaging featured speakers, ACPH 2025 emphasized that lasting change comes from collective action.
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Quote taken from "Creating new scripts through the arts: Building an innovative multidisciplinary program for emergency medicine physicians in need" by Jane Hesser, LICSW - learn more in the ACPH abstract book
Attendees commended the vibrant energy, variety of sessions, high-quality presenters, and ample opportunity for networking. For many, the chance to learn alongside other leaders at all career stages was a highlight.
Key Insights from Featured Speakers
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Quote taken from "Your inner future lab: Activate the mind state that shapes tomorrow" by Frederik G. Pferdt, PhD
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Quote taken from "When machines have time, but people do not: Connective labor and physician health" by Allison Pugh, PhD
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Quote taken from "From harm to healing: Redesigning the way we work" by Marisha Burden, MD, MBA
Showcasing Change in Action
For eight years, ACPH has provided a platform for clinicians and researchers to share effective tactics and concrete strategies for reducing burnout and building wellness-centered cultures. ACPH 2025 attendees explored the latest research on measuring organizational well-being, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, and developing institutional support for individuals and their teams.
With support from the Physician’s Foundation and backed by a robust community of exhibitors, the conference offered opportunities for conversation, problem-solving, and partnership building around physician well-being.
Looking Forward
Participants left ACPH 2025 with valuable insights and a renewed commitment to prioritizing physician health. The work of promoting physician health extends well beyond these three days of meaningful dialogue, research, and collaboration. To achieve lasting change, we must focus on three key domains:
- Wellness-centered organizational culture: Creating a workplace that truly supports physician well-being demands intentional leadership and cultural transformation.
- Technology and practice efficiency: Reducing administrative burdens and enhancing clinical workflows through thoughtful use of technology is essential. These improvements not only support operational efficiency but also significantly contribute to professional satisfaction.
- Institutional support for individual well-being: Institutions play a critical role in enabling self-care and personal wellness. By offering accessible resources and supportive programs and implementing systemic changes, organizations can empower physicians to maintain healthy lives both inside and outside of work.
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The movement for physician well-being continues to gain momentum, driven by the belief that safe, thriving workplaces are not only possible but also necessary. This committed community has shown that when clinicians are empowered, supported, and connected, everyone benefits.
Mark your calendars! Plan to join us at the next American Conference on Physician Health, Oct. 14–16, 2027, in Maryland at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. Email [email protected] to be placed on the conference mailing list and receive timely event updates, including when the call for abstracts opens.