I work in precertification and I'm handing my notice in today. I don't think I've ever felt this happy.

I work in an orthopedic clinic and have worked in hospitals and healthcare facilities all my life. For the last five years I've exclusively worked in precerts. When I tell you that trying to obtain precertifications for surgeries is soul-destroying work, I am not joking. I have literally been on the phone for hundreds of hours trying to advocate for patients, often without the appropriate paperwork supplied to me by the doctors. When we get denials for 'insufficient documentation for medical necessity', somehow that's my fault even though I might just have one chart note and zero imaging to support authorization.

I can't take it anymore. I'm so burnt out. I have nightmares about work. When my phone rings I feel stressed. During the last three months, I have been consistently applying for other jobs. I found out recently that new hires doing the same job as me are being hired on for more than I am currently making after YEARS working here. That was the final nail in the coffin for me. The disrespect I endure on a daily basis from the clinical teams, the doctors, the blatant disregard for documentation I need for medical necessity is just more than I can take.

I had an interview recently for a new position in a different, privately owned practice, and the relaxed, positive vibes I got from this place were like a breath of fresh air. I interviewed last week early one morning, and honestly it was like sitting down for a chat with someone I've known forever. Being walked around and introduced to everyone and finding out most people have been working there for 7+ years - well let's just say the longevity and happiness of the people working there was evident. They offered me the position that afternoon, met all the criteria I was hoping for, and the enthusiasm of the phone call really gave me hope that maybe I am doing the right thing.

Mental health is important in the workplace, friends. Protecting your mental health from healthcare burnout is important too. I have my resignation letter in my desk drawer right now, and the feeling of dread I have in the pit of my stomach is nowhere near as bad as the feeling of relief I'm going to have once I hand it in.

I hope all healthcare workers out there are having a safe and gentle week.