New tool for recognizing physician distress, preventing suicide

  Physicians die by their own hands at much higher rates than do members of the general public —40 percent higher in males and 130 percent higher in females—so recognizing and responding to physician distress is crucial. Physicians themselves are uniquely positioned to do this for their colleagues, but many are uncomfortable intervening and unsure what steps to take if they do get involve d. A new resource offers guidance in successfully identifying distressed colleagues and helping them get the care they need. Risk factors for physicians may be similar to those for the general public, but many physicians feel their identities are closely tied to their professional images, and this makes them more vulnerable to distress when problems arise at work. Almost every state in the nation has a physician health program (PHP), and theFederation of State Physician Health Programs maintains a listing of state PHPs with a description of the services provided by  each. State PHPs may even be able to assist physicians in identifying others with experience and expertise in treating distressed physicians. Still, physicians are often reluctant to access care.Care for your colleagues, care for yourself If you believe a physician colleague is displaying signs of distress, how should you approach her or him? How can you teach your care team to recognize physicians in distress or at risk for suicide? What actions can you take to support them?Preventing Physician Distress and Suicide, a...
Source: AMA Wire - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Source Type: news