Help is just a phone call away. The ISMA Physician Assistance Program is here to assist physicians experiencing difficulties in their personal or professional lives.

Untreated psychiatric, substance use, or stress disorders can lead to issues in medical practice. Obtaining assistance during these challenging times can benefit physicians personally and help avert a crisis in the professional workplace.
 
According to the American Medical Association, physician burnout rates spiked to 63% in 2021, an all-time high fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Commission on Physician Assistance (COPA) is the physician oversight committee for the program, meeting on a quarterly basis, and the program is also supported by a medical consultant and is staffed by two licensed clinical social workers and an administrative assistant.

“I believe the most important service we provide is ensuring physicians’ medical licenses are unrestricted and clear while they seek confidential help,” said Jennifer Jackson-Harr, MSW, LCSW, Physician Assistance Program coordinator.

Program services include help with substance use disorders, mental health issues, and disruptive behavior.

The elements of the program include:

• Screening and, if appropriate, referral for evaluation and/or treatment.
• Consultation for physician health-related concerns.
• Case management and monitoring services designed to provide support and accountability to the physician.
• Advocacy services (e.g., status reports sent to physician's employer at physician's request).
• Education on the program and physician health-related concerns

For assistance, call 1-800-257-4762 or 317-261-2060 and ask for the Physician Assistance Program staff. Additional wellness resources for physicians can be found at www.ismanet.org/PAP and www.ismanet.org/doctoryourspirit.