A new article by Dr. Chris Bundy, Executive Medical Director of the Washington Physicians Health Program (WPHP), is featured in the latest edition of the Washington Medical Commission’s newsletter, Update! In this spring issue, Dr. Bundy answers commonly asked questions about WPHP, its mission, confidentiality, and funding.  

What is WPHP and who does it serve? 

For more than 35 years, WPHP has earned a reputation as Washington’s trusted resource for restoring the health of medical professionals. WPHP offers early intervention, assessment, treatment referral, and post-treatment health support for those in the medical workforce with conditions that may negatively impact practice performance. In some cases, brief assessment and referral to services are all that is needed to support health and put concerns at rest. In other cases, more help is needed and WPHP is ready to assist. 

WPHP serves Osteopathic Physicians, Allopathic Physicians, Podiatric Physicians, Anesthesiology Assistants, Physician Assistants, Dentists, and Veterinarians as well as students and residents of these disciplines. 

What health conditions does WPHP help with?  

WPHP assists healthcare professionals with any health condition that may impact clinical performance. Examples include mental health disorders, nonpsychiatric health conditions, cognitive concerns, substance-related concerns, depression, anxiety, suicidal thinking and behavior, burnout, trauma, and stress. 

How is WPHP funded? 

WPHP is primarily funded by a special license surcharge that is paid by the license holders who are eligible to participate in WPHP. The program is not funded by taxpayer dollars or from regulatory program budgets. WPHP also receives donations which help WPHP assist healthcare professionals, conduct research, and provide scholarships for those who could not otherwise afford treatment. 

Is WPHP part of the Washington Medical Commission (WMC)? 

WPHP is an independent non-profit organization that is contracted by the Department of Health to assist physicians and physician assistants confidentially without the involvement of the WMC. Understanding that WPHP is completely separate from the WMC can provide reassurance that participation in WPHP will not somehow become known to the regulator. 

How confidential is the program? 

WPHP’s commitment to confidentiality and privacy is unwavering. Existing state and federal laws allow WPHP to protect the identity of participants and referent(s) when they follow WPHP recommendations and do not pose a risk to themselves or their patients. In 90% of cases, WPHP participants’ identities, circumstances, and participation remain confidential and do not involve disclosure to the applicable state regulatory entity.

Read the full article in the Washington Medical Commission newsletter