Physicians' flourishing Building cultures of wellness

This thesis explores whether and how elements of cultures of wellness within the medical profession impact Dutch physicians’ flourishing- or, more specifically, their feelings of professional fulfillment and compassionate care practices. The findings of this thesis show that cultures of wellness play a role in physicians’ flourishing via three overlapping themes. Elements of cultures of wellness may help physicians to find ‘Meaning in work’ and support them and their organizations to restore and foster ‘Kindness in the workplace’. On a more systemic level, the thesis concludes that placing ‘Human connections at the core of practice’ will most likely support physicians’ flourishing and contribute to ensuring sustainable healthcare systems capable of delivering high-quality patient care. Three potential helpful strategies to reinforce the relational model in healthcare are presented: 1) (Stimulate physicians and other healthcare workers to) invest in interpersonal relationships with both patients and colleagues, 2) Explicitly start conversations around professionals’ core values and 3) Incorporate leadership strategies that are aimed at normalizing (self-)kindness in medical practice and post-graduate medical education.