Sir William Osler: A forerunner of mindfulness in medical practice

Increasing work hours, patient loads, and regulations have increased burnout among health care professionals, forcing many to neglect their own physical and emotional well-being. In response, several health care organizations are encouraging physicians to adopt mindfulness practices to reduce burnout and difficulties maintaining work-life balance. It is unclear whether mindfulness will improve health outcomes and patient satisfaction or will become another passing trend. With the stakes so high, this discussion should involve the founder of our modern education system, Sir William Osler.