Health care organizations nationwide are moving quickly to refer “disruptive physicians” to intervention programs consistent with JCAHO guidelines

Two of the major intervention organizations for “disruptive physicians” have long waiting lists of physician clients. The fact that Hospitals are moving to address this important issue is an indication of the risks that are apparent in the failure to act. The risks are increased legal liability, hostile work environments and patient safety.

The average cost of a “disruptive physician” lawsuit is $720,000 per case. Regardless of the outcome, the cost of litigation is indefensible for Hospitals and healthcare organizations. Therefore, patient safety and employee morale are taking precedence over the tendency to deny or avoid addressing the bad behavior of a small number of physicians.

The Distressed Physician Program at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine has a waiting list through July of 2009. The PACE Program at the University of California at San Diego only accepts 8 new participants 4 times each year. Therefore, the chances of enrollment are indeed difficult at best.

Traditional counseling and psychotherapy are not really appropriate or useful for skill enhancement in managing anger, stress or enhancing communication and emotional intelligence. In addition, physicians are being advised by their legal counselors to avoid interventions that imply the presence of psychiatric impairment. Anger is not a mental or nervous disorder and, therefore, is not in itself an indication of mental illness.

Anderson & Anderson, based in Los Angeles, in collaboration with major hospital chains has been proactive in anticipating the need for flexible programs for busy physicians nationwide. The Anderson & Anderson model is available on-site seven days a week in a sensitive, executive coaching format which protects the confidentiality of each physician client.

George Anderson, MSW, BCD, CAMF, CEAP
Diplomate, American Association of Anger Management Providers
Anderson & Anderson®, The Trusted Name in Anger Management
http://www.andersonservices.com/
http://www.aaamp.org
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www.anger-management-resources.org