American Medical Association distinction acknowledges effort to prioritize physician well-being

University of Missouri Health Care and the MU School of Medicine have earned national recognition in 2025 from the American Medical Association (AMA) as a Joy in Medicine® organization.

The prestigious recognition from the country’s leading physician’s association honors health systems, hospitals, and medical groups that prioritize proven methods to reduce burnout and enhance the professional fulfillment of doctors that comes from patient care.  

Organizations that meet the rigorous criteria of the Joy in Medicine Health Recognition Program are leaders in the national effort to transform health care work systems and address the root causes of burnout among care teams. MU Health Care earned the AMA’s Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program’s bronze level of distinction.  

“This recognition signals to current and future team members that MU Health Care and MU School of Medicine are committed to creating a culture of wellness and fostering joy, purpose and meaning in health care,” said Dr. Shelly Farnan, chief wellness officer. “Even more inspiring is knowing that we are only just beginning creating a culture where caring for health care workers and patients go hand in hand, further enhancing our ability to save and improve lives.”

The AMA began the Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program in 2019 to address occupational distress among physicians. The association evaluates organizations' efforts to reduce work-related burnout, issuing gold, silver and bronze designations.  

“Joy in Medicine recognized organizations are leading the gains made against the physician burnout crisis and help clinicians rediscover the deep rewards and joy that comes from helping patients,” said AMA President Dr. Bobby Mukkamala. “The AMA distinction honors each organization’s commitment to not only the health and well-being of the care team, but also to patients. Quality care ultimately originates from a positive and purposeful work culture where health care professionals can flourish both mentally and physically.”

This year, 109 health organizations nationwide earned recognition with documented efforts to reduce work-related burnout. MU Health Care is the only health system in central Missouri to be recognized.

Learn more about the AMA Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program at ama-assn.org/joyinmedicine.