The Physician Health Program provides assistance to colleagues, physicians in training and their families who may be struggling with a variety of issues, including:
mental health
relationship issues (professional and personal)
substance abuse/addiction
physical health
work and family concerns
Support is available to physicians throughout the spectrum of their careers, from medical school and residency, through active practice and into retirement. Referral sources and those accessing service can be reassured that all information remains strictly confidential.
Physician Health Program committee members are from a variety of backgrounds and expertise, the common denominator being a dedication to the provision of non-judgmental and confidential assistance and support. Compassionate and knowledgeable in the field of physician health and well being, they assist struggling physicians and their families in whatever way necessary to access the necessary education, rehabilitation, support, and maximize the potential for physicians to continue in effective medical practice.
If you are in need of assistance or are aware of a struggling colleague, contact:
Brenda Senger, Director of Physician Support Programs (306-657-4553 or brenda.senger@sma.sk.ca), or
Jessica Richardson, Clinical Coordinator, Regina and south (306-359-2750 or jessica.richardson@sma.sk.ca) or
Lorraine Scott, Clinical Coordinator, Saskatoon and north (306-657-4585 or lorraine.scott@sma.sk.ca) or
For contact information of Physician Health Program committee members, click here.
If you require immediate medical assistance, visit your local hospital emergency room.
Self-reflection tools (available to SMA members only)
ePhysicianHealth.com - The world's first comprehensive, online physician health and wellness resource.
Physician Wellness and Support (SHA) | Including Physician Wellness Boost Presentations
Traditionally, physicians in need of care feel guilty about accepting care and shame for needing it. So, many struggle with undiagnosed, untreated or self-treated mental health issues.
The most common reasons physicians and their families contact the Physician Health Program (PHP) are:
mental health issues
relationship issues (personal and professional)
substance abuse and addiction
work or family disharmony
One out of every 10 physicians will become dependent on psychoactive drugs or alcohol sufficient to impair the practice of medicine at some time during their careers.
One out of every 100 physicians will become a narcotics addict at sometime during their career
The practice of medicine is often the last area to be affected for a physician in difficulty.
Need for control
Perfectionism
Dedication and devotion to work to the exclusion of pleasure and interpersonal relationships
Emotional remoteness
Chronic self-doubt
Sleep deprivation
Excessive workload and demands
Potential for complaints/litigation
Witnessing trauma and human suffering
Job dissatisfaction
The Physician Health Program is here to help. We are dedicated to looking out for the best interests of physicians and their families. As a member of the SMA, the services that are available to you are also available to your family in the areas of education, rehabilitation and supports for addictions, mental health, physical health and family marital concerns. If you, a family member or a colleague is in need of assistance, please contact the Physician Health Program.