Physicians and Sleep Deprivation

An increasing body of literature reveals that physician sleep deprivation puts patients and physicians at risk. Rigorous control of work hours per the ACGME improves physician trainee quality of life and probably reduces trainee medical errors. Whether these measures unequivocally reduce patient morbidity and mortality is uncertain. Research that comprehensively elucidates the effects of work hours, sleep hours, and circadian rhythms has the potential to save lives and money by directing data-driven physician work schedules. The effects of these work hour and work schedule limitations on patient and physician outcomes should then be rigorously followed. © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.