April 26, 2024 by matray

The Medical Professional Liability (MPL) Association has announced that the Federation of State Physician Health Programs, Inc. (FSPHP) will receive the 2024 Award of Excellence in Physician Wellness. FSPHP is being honored for its role as a leader in the medical community, specifically to improve the health and well-being of medical professionals. The MPL Association is the leading international organization representing the medical professional liability insurance community.

FSPHP is a national association of Physician and Health Professional Programs (PHPs). The programs provide confidential assessment, referral to treatment, resources, and monitoring for physicians and healthcare professionals, and those in training who may be at risk of impairment from mental illness, substance use disorders, and other health conditions. In addition to working with participants, PHPs provide education, outreach, and advocacy to their medical communities in support of physician health and well-being.

“Physician health programs provide hope for physicians and other healthcare providers suffering with substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and suicide. They also protect the public by ensuring healthcare providers under their charge are safe to practice by providing personalized, tailored support, treatment, monitoring, and accountability,” said Michael J. Baron, MD, MPD, DFASAM, president of the Federation of State Physician Health Programs and medical director of the Tennessee Physician Health Program. “PHPs facilitate the return of healers to practice with outcome data that far surpasses that for the general population facing similar disorders. Embracing these programs isn't just about healing individuals; it's about reducing professional liability risk, ensuring patient safety, and advancing a culture of empathy, accountability, and excellence in patient care.”

“We applaud the Federation of State Physician Health Programs and stand with them in the mission to support physician health programs to improve the health of medical professionals, thereby contributing to quality patient care,” said MPL Association Board Chair John H. Mize, president & CEO, SVMIC. “On behalf of the MPL Association Board and its members, I am pleased to honor FSPHP with this award.”

The MPL Association Award of Excellence in Physician Wellness will be presented at the 2024 MPL Association Conference on May 9 in Washington, D.C.