News and briefs: Physicians shy away from employee-assistance programs

Although 80% of physicians surveyed in a recent Archives of Surgery study noted a personal crisis in the past year, most stated that seeking institutional assistance was unlikely. Only 40% were willing to consult physician-health services and 29% were open to using employee-assistance programs, according to an American Medical News online article.

A Brigham and Women's Hospital survey in the study cited lack of time, fear of lack of confidentiality, and negative impact on their career as the top reasons for not getting institutional help. The Archives article, which cites 12 other studies, says 15-75% of physicians are under severe stress or burned out.

Advocates for institutional assistance say establishing a peer support program, and having healthcare organizations actively promote wellness services to physicians are ways to encourage physicians to seek help, which can reduce the risk of medical errors and, in some cases, suicide, according to the article.

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