Disruptive Physicians are Unlikely to Benefit from Road Rage or Batterer’s Treatment

Even though the new JCAHO standards do not go into effect until January 1, 2009, some unscrupulous anger management and domestic violence providers are already colluding with mandated “disruptive physicians” to avoid responsibility for their behavior. They are doing this by enrolling in unrelated on-line courses for anger management, road rage or domestic violence batterers’ classes.

The dynamics involved in “disruptive physician” behavior and the person-directed violence of spousal abuse or child abuse have little in common. Domestic violence is defined by law as “violence that occurs in an intimate relationship”. The key words are "intimate" and "relationships". As might be expected, these courses have legally required curricula designed to teach equality in male/female and other intimate relationships.

Road rage, as the title implies, is clearly related to aggressive, dangerous, or reckless driving. Laws related to “road rage” generally require defendants to attend group instruction similar to other traffic school related courses. On-line classes are generally accepted.

Anger management classes are designed to address issues related to the inappropriate expression of anger that may result in physical or verbal abuse, or the destruction of property. Anger management classes are conducted in a group format with client workbooks that include enhancement skills in interpersonal relationships. Most courts do not accept on-line anger management classes.

Executive Coaching for “disruptive physicians” require training and experience in emotional intelligence, communication, stress management and anger management, as well as an understanding of the demands of health care organizations and the unique stresses experienced by practicing physicians. A background in mental health/psychotherapy is extremely useful.

All mandated “disruptive physicians” must undergo a non-psychiatric assessment heavily focused on the typical leadership and interpersonal skills that are essential in the successful practice of medicine in a Managed Health Care Environment. A 360% assessment, as well as a structured curriculum with aftercare, is standard in all of the programs that are consistent with the new JCAHO standards.


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
http://www.linkedin.com/in/geoanderson
www.anger-management-resources.org