Doctors and Medical Students Case Managed by an Australian Doctors Health Program: Characteristics and Outcomes

Abstract

Case management by an independent physician health program may protect the health of the doctor and the community, and could be considered in other jurisdictions.

Getting back on track: a systematic review of the outcomes of remediation and rehabilitation programmes for healthcare professionals with performance concerns

“…The other study explored return to work rates after being on sick leave as an outcome of the programme for physicians. Of 39 physicians that were on sick leave in the first month of involvement with the programme, 84% (n=31) had returned to medical work 33. Two studies of the Missouri PHP reported recovery rates of enrolled physicians (defined as being stable, recovering and working well within the programme) of 94% and 90%, respectively 34 35…”

The value of a support group for medical professionals with substance use disorders

“…Based on similar programs in North America and Europe, these programs have been established to provide a confidential, supportive service to health care practitioners, who can be reluctant to get help in the event of illness. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7] Studies have found that this may be attributable to a strong work identity where illness is equated with incompetence and a threat to self-esteem, or where society's high regard for doctors leaves them thinking that they are immune to the normal range of human conflicts, problems, vulnerabilities and illnesses. 2,3,8 Like physician health programs in other jurisdictions, a significant proportion of VDHP's work is the care of doctors with substance use issues.…”

“…2 Research has shown that such a comprehensive approach to assisting doctors is associated with recovery rates of between 75-85%. 4,7,12 Furthermore, if impaired practitioners remain untreated, the community may be deprived of years of service of highly trained and experienced professionals. 13 Central to VDHP's support of doctors with substance use disorders is a care contract lasting up to five years called the Case Management, Aftercare and Monitoring Program (CAMP) Agreement.…”

Systematic review of the factors and the key indicators that identify doctors at risk of complaints, malpractice claims or impaired performance

“…According to the location of the study, specialty as a risk factor varied between countries. In Australia, impaired performance was less of a risk for specialists, 27 while in the USA two studies found a higher relative risk for surgeons, psychiatrists and family medicine doctors. 28 41 A further study conducted in the USA found that surgeons were 1.9 times more likely than non-surgeons to enrol in a PHP because of alcohol-related problems 26 and 0.5 times less likely because of opioid use.…”