Designing and enforcing policies that protect physicians’ mental health

Promoting and advocating for a healthy work-life balance among physicians may not be enough. Developing and enforcing policies that are embedded into the health system may be more effective in protecting physicians’ mental health and preventing burnout. Establishing a healthier work environment and culture by, for example, restricting the number of hours on call, defining workload parameters, and allowing time off work will help physicians lead a healthier lives with better work-life balance. The Okanagan Charter is an example that demonstrates how universities and colleges could promote mental health and build healthier communities.