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The Paradox of Professional Autonomy: Discovering Why More Could Be Less

MARK H. GREENAWALD, MD, FAAFP
JASON E. MARKER, MD, MPA, FAAFP

FPM. 2025;32(5):24-29.

Author disclosures: no relevant financial relationships.

This content conforms to AAFP criteria for CME.

Autonomy isn’t something you either have or don’t have. It’s a continuum, and the optimal amount is a matter of individual preference, risk tolerance, and sustainability.

Dr. Greenawald is professor and interim chair, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Carilion Clinic and Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, Va.

Dr. Marker is associate director, Memorial Hospital Family Medicine Residency, South Bend, Ind.

Send comments to fpmedit@aafp.org, or add your comments to the article online.

Author disclosures: no relevant financial relationships.

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  5. 5.Rittenhouse D, Olszuk T, Gerteis M, et al. Supporting and Promoting High-Performing Physician-Owned Private Practices: Voices from the Front Lines (white paper). American Medical Association and Mathematica; 2021.
  6. 6.Greenawald MH, Florio Pipas C. The power of coaching: supercharge your personal and professional well-being. Fam Pract Manag. 2022;29(5):12-16.
  7. 7.Greenawald MH, Jeremiah M, Mertes C. How to be employed “well”: optimizing your professional satisfaction. Fam Pract Manag. 2022;29(5):29-34.
  8. 8.Greenawald MH. How to create a culture of well-being in your practice. Fam Pract Manag. 2018;25(4):11-15.
  9. 9.Gazelle G, Gazelle D. Mindful MD: Six Ways Mindfulness Restores Your Autonomy and Cures Healthcare Burnout TBG Publications; 2023.
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