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Dealing with the impaired supervisor.
1Veterans Administration Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA.
Physician Assistant (American Academy of Physician Assistants)
|August 7, 1990
Summary
Professional impairment, often due to chemical dependence, requires understanding the disease and seeking support. Resources are available for successful rehabilitation of impaired professionals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Professionalism
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Professional impairment is increasingly recognized.
- Chemical dependence, particularly alcohol, is a primary cause.
- Physician impairment mechanisms exist in every state.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of addressing professional impairment.
- To outline strategies for Physician Assistants (PAs) working with impaired supervisors.
- To emphasize the availability of support systems for rehabilitation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on professional impairment and chemical dependence.
- Discussion of the role of PAs in supporting impaired colleagues.
- Overview of existing state-level physician impairment mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Chemical dependence is the most common source of professional impairment.
- PAs should understand chemical dependence, their personal views, and seek support.
- State-level impairment mechanisms and support systems are increasingly available.
Conclusions:
- Impaired professionals can achieve successful rehabilitation.
- Support systems are crucial for recovery and return to practice.
- Understanding the disease process of chemical dependence is vital for intervention.