Protect Our Healers: Stop Mandatory Physician Health Programs and Demand Transparency

Every day, physicians and medical students face immense pressures that can lead to burnout, mental health issues, and stress-related conditions. While support is crucial, the mandatory use of Physician Health Programs (PHPs) has raised significant concerns regarding their transparency, fairness, and respect for individual rights. 

Why This Matters: PHPs were originally designed to help healthcare professionals with substance use and mental health issues recover while ensuring patient safety. However, there are increasing reports of these programs lacking oversight, using punitive measures, and having conflicts of interest that can unfairly end careers. This lack of accountability must be addressed to protect our medical professionals’ rights and well-being. 

Learn more:

Psychology Today | Medical Students | Dr. Boyd

Physician Health Programs | Dr. Cohen

Suicide Linked to PHPs | Ideal Medical Care | Dr. Wible

Physician Health Programs Catastrophe | Dr. Langan 

Physician Extortion | KevinMD | Dr. Boyd

Residency Epidemic of Abuse | Dr. Manion 

Senators Urge DOJ Investigate ADA violations

It’s time to take action and demand a system that truly supports those who dedicate their lives to caring for us.

What We’re Asking:

1. Investigation by Congress and Federal Agencies: We call on lawmakers in states where Physician Health Programs operate with near-immunity and relevant federal agencies (HHS, DOJ, FTC) to initiate comprehensive investigations into the operations, policies, and outcomes of PHPs across the United States.
2. Demand Professional organizations accept other wellness options: AMA, AAMC, and MLB have included Physician Health Programs as a national standard, despite ongoing calls for reform and greater oversight.
3. Ensuring Transparency and Fairness: PHPs must operate under strict regulatory oversight with clear guidelines that safeguard the rights and dignity of participants. This includes transparency about program methods, appeals processes, and the use of evidence-based practices.
4. Truly Voluntary Participation: As it stands, Physician Health Programs authorize de-facto mandatory participation by threatening physician licensure or enrollment in medical programs. Healthcare institutions should support truly voluntary, confidential access to mental health programs of their own choosing, that adequately respect medical professionals’ autonomy and privacy.

Your Voice Matters: By signing this petition, you’re not just supporting our physicians and medical students; you’re advocating for a healthcare system that prioritizes compassion and fairness. Help us ensure that the people who care for us are also cared for. Together, we can bring about change and create a supportive, just environment for all healthcare professionals.