RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Honored for Physician Well-Being Efforts

On September 11, 2025, the American Medical Association (AMA) recognized RWJBarnabas Health, Rutgers Health, and their affiliated institutions for their commitment to enhancing the well-being of healthcare professionals. The Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC) and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH), alongside Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS), earned bronze-level status as part of the AMA’s Joy in Medicine initiative.

Recognition for Addressing Physician Burnout

This prestigious accolade honors healthcare organizations that implement effective strategies to mitigate burnout among physicians and clinical staff. The AMA’s Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program, established in 2019, has acknowledged over 200 organizations nationwide, with 109 organizations receiving awards this year, including 67 at the bronze level. Recognition is valid for two years, reflecting ongoing efforts in improving work environments for healthcare professionals.

The successful application process was led by Dr. Chantal Brazeau, Chief Wellness Officer at Rutgers Health, and Odette Perriel, Vice President of Support Services at RWJUH. They worked alongside Dr. Michael L. Loftus, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical and Quality Officer at CBMC, and Barbara Kirrane, MD, Chair of the CBMC Well-being Committee. Their collective efforts were supported by executive leadership, emphasizing wellness as a priority.

Innovative Programs to Support Medical Staff

In aiming for this recognition, the teams created mechanisms that facilitate communication between executive leadership and physicians, allowing for a better understanding of challenges faced by medical staff. Programs have been developed to promote interprofessional collaboration and responsive actions that enhance both staff experience and patient care.

Notably, peer support programs have engaged hundreds of staff members annually. Regular events and communications foster a culture of appreciation, helping to build a sense of value among team members. “Our Peer Support program has become one of the most meaningful resources we offer our medical staff,” Dr. Loftus stated. “Every peer supporter is thoughtfully selected and trained, not just for their clinical experience, but for their compassion and ability to connect.”

Dr. Brazeau highlighted the impact of their weekly Senior Leadership Rounds, which have transformed communication practices within the organization. “They give frontline staff a direct voice, and leadership follows through with real change,” she explained, noting improvements like the addition of mobile workstations where needed. This initiative, coupled with their Culture of Kindness program, aims to create a respectful environment where every staff member feels valued.

The issue of physician burnout remains critical. Research indicates that burnout levels among U.S. physicians peaked at 62.8% in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, but fell to 45.2% in 2023 due to various systemic improvements. Despite this decline, burnout rates among physicians continue to exceed those of other U.S. workers, underscoring the necessity for sustained support.

“Joy in Medicine recognized organizations are leading the gains made against the physician burnout crisis and help clinicians rediscover the deep rewards and joy that comes from helping patients,” said Bobby Mukkamala, M.D., AMA President. “The AMA distinction honors each organization’s commitment to the health and well-being of the care team and patients alike.”

The recognition from the AMA highlights the importance of fostering a positive work culture in healthcare, which is essential for ensuring that healthcare professionals can thrive both mentally and physically while delivering quality care.