The TMA Committee on Physician Health and Rehabilitation promotes the health and well being of physicians as well as the treatment and rehabilitation of those who have become impaired for whatever reason. It is the responsibility of all members of the medical profession to ensure that the practice of medicine is conducted using the highest moral, ethical and scientific standards.
The function of the PHR committee is three-fold: 1) to promote physician health and well-being, 2) to ensure safe patient care by identifying physicians who may have a potentially impairing illness, and 3) to advocate for the physician while maintaining confidentiality and the highest ethical standards.
As advocates, the committee helps with intervention, referral for evaluation and treatment, if necessary, monitoring upon return from treatment, and education for physicians, family members and support staff on topics relating to physician wellness. PHR Committee Activities
- 24-Hour Hotline: (800) 880-1640
- Continuing Medical Education Programs
- Drug Screen Program for Physicians
- PHR Assistance Fund
- Outreach to medical students and resident physicians
- Hospital/Joint Commission Standard re: Licensed Independent Practitioner Health
A 24-hour toll free number is available that anyone may call if he or she is concerned about a physician who may have a potentially impairing illness.
The PHR committee offers continuing medical education activities on many topics. PHR activities encourage physicins to promote and maintain their health and wellness, which fosters healthy lifestyles in patients. The PHR committee is committed to providing ongoing education of all physicians and medical students regading physician ehalth and wellness as well as services for health-related conditions that may affect a physician's ability to practice medicine with reasonable skill and safety.
The Drug Screen Program for Physicians provides a statewide, consistent method for random drug screening of physicians under agreement with county medical society PHR committees, district coordinators, and hospital-based peer assistance committees.
Through the PHR Assistance Fund, financial assistance is available to physicians who cannot afford treatment for depression, Substance Use Disorders, or other problems. Financial assistqance also is available for short-term living expenses while a physician receives treatment. Donations to the fund are appreciated and are tax-deductible.
The committee also offers assistance, education, and literature to help medical students and resident physicians who may know of a peer who needs assistance or who may need assistance themselves.
The PHR committee developed resources available to hospitals to help them respond to the Joint Commission requirement related to physician health.
PHR CME Courses