Healthcare professionals' perceptions of participation in one state physician health program

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Participation in physician health programs (PHPs) is associated with positive outcomes for healthcare professionals (HCPs) with potentially-impairing conditions, but more information is needed about PHP completer experiences. The present study explored program completers' perceptions of their involvement with one state PHP. METHODS: A PHP staff member with no monitoring role conducted exit interviews via telephone with all individuals who completed the program between January 2019 and September 2023 (n = 666). Deidentified interview responses were examined using quantitative descriptive analysis and thematic analysis. RESULTS: The HCPs who completed PHP participation were generally satisfied with the program. Three major themes emerged: (1) PHP offers valuable support; (2) Helpful components of the PHP; and (3) Challenges encountered during PHP monitoring. The HCPs generally expressed appreciation for the PHP, with many describing a bittersweet journey. Components of the program identified as helpful included peer support, availability and expertise of case managers, accountability, advocacy and support offered by the program, and mental healthcare. Key challenges faced by program completers included the financial burden, feeling overwhelmed by program requirements, and perceived stigma and negative treatment related to their PHP involvement. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Many PHP completers perceive PHP support as critical to improving their recovery outcomes. Additional resources may be needed to relieve the perceived financial burden of PHP participation, mitigate disruption to daily life/responsibilities, and reduce emotional distress following referral to PHP. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE: This is a large qualitative study of the perspectives and experiences of PHP completers.