Why only 12% of physicians would choose medicine again

The Doctors Company's (TDC's) latest "Future of Healthcare" survey paints a sobering picture of physician morale and the medical industry in 2025. With an overall Net Promoter Score (NPS) of -52, only 12% of physicians said they would recommend medicine as a career path.

The results, drawn from a nationally representative sample of 368 physicians across 47 states, are reflective of growing frustrations over patient trust, economic strain, liability fears and the overwhelming influence of medical misinformation.

Yet, despite the challenges, most survey respondents still find meaning in their clinical work. Seventy percent say helping patients recover is the most fulfilling part of their career. But, unless broader systemic pressures are addressed, the physician shortage may only worsen — especially as younger physicians report declining satisfaction and a desire to leave the field.

Find The Doctors Company's full "Future of Healthcare" survey here.