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Teaching Residents and Program Directors About Physician Impairment

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Abstract

Objective: Residents are at a higher risk than the general population for the development of stress-related problems, depression, or suicide. The authors describe a curriculum for educating PGY-1s and residency program directors about physician impairment. Methods: A resident wellness program was established with the goals of preventing resident suicide, encouraging acceptance of treatment where appropriate, preventing self-prescribing, and aiding in stress management. Results: The curriculum was rated highly by residents in the areas of program content and usefulness. Conclusions: Residents are receptive to education on physician impairment. Institutional support is necessary for effectively addressing these concerns with trainees.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Office of Residency Affairs, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 19656, Springfield, Illinois, 62794-9656, USA

    Karen E. Broquet M.D. (Associate Professor)

  2. Division of Medical Education Liaison and Outreach, American Medical Association, Chicago, Illinois, USA

    Paul H. Rockey M.D., M.P.H.

Authors
  1. Karen E. Broquet M.D.
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  2. Paul H. Rockey M.D., M.P.H.
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Broquet, K.E., Rockey, P.H. Teaching Residents and Program Directors About Physician Impairment. Acad Psychiatry 28, 221–225 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ap.28.3.221

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ap.28.3.221

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