Part Two: Managing Physicians as Patients and Their Safe Return to Work

This second installment in a 3-part series about physicians as patients explores challenges in communication and role definition while managing their care and safe return to work. In the first article of the series, authors reviewed unique characteristics that make physicians different as patients, with some general guidance about how to approach their care. Although most treating physicians receive little occupational training, health issues commonly have an impact on work with imperative to address work issues promptly for best outcome. This paper demystifies the challenge of managing work status and discusses navigating common physical and cognitive issues while maintaining role clarity. The treating clinician reading this paper will learn to avoid common pitfalls and be better equipped to provide initial assessments and interventions to keep physicians working safely, keeping in mind licensure issues and reporting requirements. Part Three of the series will focus on the most common mental health issues seen in physicians.