Establishing a Novel Group-based Litigation Peer Support Program to Promote Wellness for Physicians Involved in...

Area of Science:

• Medical Law
• Physician Wellness
• Psychology

Background:

• Medical malpractice lawsuits are a significant source of stress for physicians, leading to Medical Malpractice Stress Syndrome (MMSS).
• MMSS symptoms include anxiety, depression, insomnia, and can escalate to burnout and impaired decision-making.
• Physicians often avoid formal therapy, highlighting a need for alternative wellness support during litigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a peer support program for physicians facing malpractice lawsuits.
• To provide a safe space for physicians to discuss the personal impact of litigation and normalize the experience.

Main Methods:

• A facilitated, group-based peer support model was implemented for physician defendants.
• Physicians were invited to participate in discussions about the personal impact of being named in a lawsuit.

Main Results:

• Physicians were receptive to participating in the peer support group.
• Participants found the program helpful and unanimously recommended it to other sued physicians.
• Burnout levels did not increase among participants during the study period.

Conclusions:

• This pilot study is the first to assess a facilitated, group-based peer support model for emergency physicians sued for malpractice.
• Peer support sessions were well-received and led to participants feeling better.
• Formal peer support may normalize the experience of being sued, promote wellness, and benefit physicians navigating malpractice litigation.