Teaching Residents and Program Directors About Physician Impairment

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 residents & program directors about physician impairment. A resident wellness program was established with the goals of preventing suicide, encouraging acceptance of treatment when appropriate, preventing self-prescribing, & aiding in stress management. The curriculum was rated highly by residents in the areas of program content & usefulness. Residents are receptive to education on physician impairment but institutional support is necessary to address effectively these concerns with trainees. (29 refs.) JA