Physicians often find themselves caring for others continuously, many times sacrificing their own wants and/or needs. However, physicians also need assistance at times and we want you to know that it is ok to ask for help, to not be able to solve every problem, overcome every obstacle or combat every illness by yourself. Help is available. It is the primary role of the Physicians' Health Foundation of Louisiana (PFHL) Physicians Health Program (PHP) to offer assistance to physicians who may be suffering from difficulties such as substance use issues, depression, anxiety, etc., in addition to a host of physical ailments and maladaptive behavioral patterns. The PHFL PHP also supports physicians who are in our program with their applications for hospital privileges, health plan network enrollment, malpractice insurance, disability insurance, and medical licensure.
Of noteworthy importance, the assistance offered by the PHFL PHP is confidential. For example, any physician who is experiencing a problem with substance use for which they have not been adequately treated or monitored, can access the PHFL PHP without any obligation on the part of the PHFL PHP to notify the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME). There are some circumstances which the PHFL PHP is mandated to report to the LSBME. The PHFL PHP is obligated to inform when it receives information indicating a physician has diverted prescription drugs for trade or sale, information of a physician acting inappropriately with a patient (boundary violation), or a relapse. However, in all cases, the LSBME and the PHFL PHP mutually support early detection and treatment of physicians.
If you or someone you know could use the assistance of the PHFL PHP, please do not hesitate to contact us at 888-743-5747.