National Nonprofit Day, observed annually on August 17, is a time to celebrate the vital contributions nonprofit organizations make to the communities they serve. This day honors the dedication, tireless efforts, and impacts of nonprofits working to create lasting, positive change.

At the Washington Physicians Health Program (WPHP), we are honored to serve our community as a nonprofit by providing essential resources, advocacy, and support to health professionals in need. WPHP has been Washington’s trusted resource for restoring the health of medical professionals for more than 35 years. Our confidential support and exceptional outcomes provide reassurance of safe practice and promote workforce sustainability.

Our Nonprofit History

WPHP, initially called the Washington Monitored Treatment Program Committee, was founded in 1986 by a group of concerned members of the Washington State Medical Association who wanted their colleagues to receive treatment, rather than discipline, when illness threatened safe practice. Since 1992, WPHP has been an independent, physician-led, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization providing critical support to Washington’s health professionals.

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. In this way, WPHP is truly a peer-to-peer assistance program that is funded by and for the license holders who are eligible for WPHP services. WPHP also receives donations which help WPHP assist healthcare professionals, conduct research, provide scholarships for those who could not otherwise afford treatment, and support education and outreach efforts in the community.

Expressing Gratitude

Thanks to the support of the licensees whose surcharges underwrite our work and generous donations from our supporters, WPHP has been able to expand the range of professions and health conditions served over the years. This has also allowed the WPHP team to grow and support the surge in healthcare professionals seeking assistance, making us one of the largest Physician Health Programs in the country.

On this special day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our supporters, partners, and the incredible healthcare professionals we have the privilege of assisting. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of healthcare professionals and fostering a healthier medical community. WPHP looks forward to many more years of supporting those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.