Need assistance or ready to help a physician in need?
Need assistance or ready to help a physician in need?
Our latest news and updates from the Washington Physicians Health Program team. For an archive of relevant resources on a wide variety of health topics, please visit Research & Studies.
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
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On March 18th, as we honor Health Workforce Well-Being Day and the critical need to address physician burnout, mental health struggles, and stress, we must reflect on the steps we can take to make meaningful change.
We invite Washington healthcare professionals who are invested in the mission of physician well-being to consider joining us in Seattle for the FSPHP 2025 Conference and Annual Membership Meeting – Health Professional Wellbeing: Aligning Safety, Supports, and Confidentiality, from April 23-26, 2025.
This event brings together Physician Health Programs (PHPs), healthcare leaders, physicians, and stakeholders nationwide who are dedicated to improving the well-being of the healthcare workforce.
PHPs, like Washington Physicians Health Program, are essential allies in this mission. PHPs provide confidential care backed by legislative protections, supporting physicians as they navigate mental health challenges while safeguarding both their careers and patient safety. With the power of peer support, we help physicians restore their lives and careers—often coming back stronger and more fulfilled than before.
Register today to attend the FSPHP Annual Meeting and be part of this critical conversation. Let’s collaborate to ensure that our healthcare systems are built on a foundation of safety, support, and well-being for physicians and the patients they care for.
Together, we can build a future where physician health is a priority, and healthcare professionals have the support they need to thrive.
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The Washington Physicians Health Program (WPHP) has been dedicated to supporting healthcare professionals for over 35 years. Recently, WPHP updated its mission statement to better reflect its purpose as Washington’s trusted resource for restoring the health of medical professionals. Our confidential support and exceptional outcomes provide reassurance of safe practice and promote workforce sustainability.
Confidential Help, Reassurance of Safe Practice
WPHP assists healthcare professionals with any health condition that may affect safe clinical practice. We offer early intervention, assessment, treatment referral, and post-treatment health support for those in the medical field 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. We serve osteopathic physicians, allopathic physicians, podiatric physicians, physician assistants, dentists, veterinarians, and students and residents in these fields.
WPHP’s Key Outcomes
WPHP consistently receives high ratings for program service and satisfaction from both participants and stakeholders. Approximately 85-90% of participants receiving WPHP services do so without any knowledge or involvement of their licensing boards. Notably, 91% of program participants report needing and benefiting from WPHP advocacy. At program completion, 83% of participants are working in their field and nearly 90% of colleagues report that WPHP is a valuable resource to the medical community.
WPHP participants also report significantly lower burnout rates than the national average. Approximately 85% of WPHP’s program participants are in full remission of their health condition at discharge. Twelve- and sixty-month abstinence rates for WPHP participants with substance use disorders are at 92% and 87% respectively.
Suicide Awareness and Prevention
WPHP considers physician suicide awareness and prevention an important priority – one in which we are leading efforts at state and national levels. Through our education and outreach mission, WPHP strives to provide accurate information about physician suicide as well as resources to support physicians, physician assistants, veterinarians, and dentists with health conditions that are associated with suicide.
Advocacy and Credentialing Reform
Beyond health support, WPHP is also active in advocating for license and credentialing question reforms and preserving WPHP protections in the public records act.
Through these initiatives, WPHP is contributing to the promotion of long-term wellness and success of healthcare professionals which promotes workforce sustainability.
Read the full article in the Washington Medical Commission Update
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Dr. Chris Bundy, WPHP’s Executive Medical Director and FSPHP’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Art Hengerer, FSPHP Board of Directors, and Linda Bresnahan, MS, FSPHP’s Executive Director, were invited to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) 2024 Symposium on Physician Well-Being, held November 18-20, 2024.
Their focus was on raising awareness and understanding of the vital role that Physician Health Programs (PHPs) play in promoting physician well-being. The goal of the symposium was to partner with guests who specialized in the physician health and well-being space to review and discuss the progress and impact of the well-being movement within graduate medical education (GME) since 2015.
Attendees were charged to identify successful strategies and initiatives that have effectively contributed to improving the well-being of medical trainees, faculty, and staff. The symposium further challenged attendees to define the future ideal states for both the GME clinical learning environment and the individuals within it, explore the well-being focus, and propose actionable strategies for future enhancements.
Pictured (from left to right): Dr. Stuart Slavin, ACGME; Dr. Carol Bernstein, ACGME; Linda Bresnahan, MS, FSPHP; Dr. Tim Brigham, ACGME; Dr. Chris Bundy, WPHP and FSPHP; and Dr. Art Hengerer.
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The Washington Physicians Health Program (WPHP) is excited to congratulate Dr. Chris Bundy for his invaluable contribution to the updated LifeBridge Physician Wellness Program Tool Kit. His insightful chapter, titled “Physician Wellness Programs and Physician Health Programs – a Powerful Partnership,” explores the critical partnerships between these two programs and their collective impact on the well-being of healthcare providers.
Enhancing Physician Wellness Through Strategic Collaboration
Dr. Bundy’s contribution highlights the latest best practices and innovative models implemented by medical societies dedicated to enhancing physician wellness. The partnership between Physician Wellness Programs (PWPs) and Physician Health Programs (PHPs) is essential in promoting resilience and overall health among healthcare professionals, especially in the face of today’s challenging healthcare landscape.
Acknowledgment of Support from The Physicians Foundation
WPHP extends its gratitude to The Physicians Foundation for their steadfast support in publishing this vital tool kit. Their commitment to advancing physician wellness is instrumental in equipping healthcare professionals with the resources they need to succeed both personally and professionally.
Discover the Updated Tool Kit
The second edition of the LifeBridge Tool Kit serves as a comprehensive resource for medical societies operating physician wellness programs, detailing effective strategies and valuable materials. To explore this essential tool kit and gain insights into best practices in physician wellness, visit the LifeBridge Tool Kit.
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Dr. Chris Bundy, Executive Medical Director of the Washington Physicians Health Program, recently presented at the Medical Professional Liability Association Underwriters Workshop in Scottsdale, Ariz. His talk, “Better Together: Physician Health Programs, Professional Liability, and Access to Quality Care” focused on the critical role that Physician Health Programs (PHPs) play as a trusted risk management resource for medical professional liability (MPL) insurers.
Key Takeaways from Dr. Bundy’s Presentation:
This partnership represents a significant step toward fostering a healthier healthcare environment where physicians can thrive.
For more details about the conference and its objectives, visit the official event page here.
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This September, WPHP proudly joins the national celebration of Women in Medicine Month, recognizing the extraordinary impact of women physicians who shape the future of healthcare. These trailblazers aren’t just advancing patient care—they’re leading with empathy, mentoring the next generation, and driving innovation that transforms the medical field.
Legacy and Leadership of Women in Medicine
Women in medicine have consistently defied obstacles to achieve remarkable milestones. From advocating for patient rights to revolutionizing medical research, they have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the healthcare community. As mentors and advocates, women physicians create inclusive, compassionate environments that foster growth and progress for all.
Supporting Physician Wellness
At WPHP, we recognize that the path for women in medicine often comes with unique challenges. That’s why supporting physician wellness is central to our mission. During Women in Medicine Month, we are reminded that the wellness of women physicians not only strengthens the individuals who inspire but also builds a more resilient healthcare community for all.
Spotlight on Dr. Laura Moss: A Leader in Physician Wellness
This Women in Medicine Month, we’re proud to highlight our very own, Associate Medical Director, Laura Moss, MD, whose time at WPHP exemplifies the impact women physicians have on healthcare and physician wellness. Dr. Moss joined WPHP in 2016, bringing her expertise in psychiatry and addiction medicine to our clinical team. Before joining WPHP, Dr. Moss served as the Medical Director at Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation’s Oregon site, led the Women’s Trauma and Recovery Center at the Seattle VA Hospital, and was Assistant Professor at the University of Washington. At WPHP, her commitment to physician wellness ensures that healthcare professionals can get the support they need and continue serving their communities.
Shaping a Healthier Future Together
As we honor Women in Medicine, we recognize that the future of healthcare depends on the strength, leadership, and resilience of women physicians. By supporting their wellness and celebrating their achievements, we create a brighter future for the healthcare system.
Join us in celebrating Dr. Laura Moss and all the remarkable women in medicine who inspire us with their dedication. Let’s continue to support their work and their well-being to ensure a stronger healthcare community for generations to come.
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WPHP was honored to participate in the 75th Annual International Doctors in Alcoholics Anonymous (IDAA) Conference held in beautiful Baltimore, Md., from July 10 to 14, 2024. This year’s theme, “Our Safe Harbor,” provided a perfect setting for healthcare professionals and their families to find solace, connection, and support in their recovery journeys.
Highlights from the Conference
At this milestone event, WPHP’s own Dr. Laura Moss and Dr. Chris Bundy delivered insightful presentations that resonated deeply with attendees.
Dr. Laura Moss presented on “Atypical & Designer Drugs,” shedding light on the complexities and challenges these substances pose in the field of addiction medicine. Her expertise and depth of knowledge provided valuable insights for those navigating the evolving landscape of substance use disorders.
Dr. Chris Bundy discussed the pivotal role of sponsorship in recovery. His presentation emphasized how sponsorship can foster connection, accountability, and resilience, highlighting the profound impact it can have on individuals striving for long-term recovery.
Celebrating Recovery
The IDAA Conference is more than just an educational event; it’s a celebration of the strength and resilience found within the recovery community. Participants had the unique opportunity to share their personal journeys, successes, and challenges in a supportive and understanding environment. Attendees experienced a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, reinforcing the importance of connection in the recovery process.
Meetings and discussion groups provided a platform for attendees to explore new tools and techniques for maintaining sobriety and managing the demands of their professional and personal lives. These sessions were designed to empower individuals with practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and enhancing their well-being.
Families played a significant role in the conference, with dedicated sessions and activities tailored to their needs. This inclusive approach ensured that everyone, from healthcare professionals to their loved ones, could find value and support. The conference fostered a sense of unity, demonstrating that recovery is a journey best taken together.
Additionally, the conference featured inspirational keynote speakers who shared their stories of hope and perseverance. These narratives not only motivated attendees but also highlighted the diverse pathways to recovery, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each person’s journey is unique, and every story of recovery contributes to the collective strength of the community.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity
IDAA is committed to recovery for all healthcare professionals and their families impacted by addictive disorders. The conference celebrated diversity and emphasized equity and inclusion for people from all racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual/gender, and spiritual identities. Multiple recovery pathways, beyond AA, were represented, fostering an inclusive and supportive community.
Looking Forward
We are excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 Annual IDAA Conference! Join us in Spokane, Washington, from July 9-13, 2025, as we continue to celebrate recovery, support one another, and learn more about the field of addiction medicine. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative event in a new and vibrant location.
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At the April 2024 Federation of Physician Health Programs Annual Education Conference in Nashville, the spotlight was on enhancing the effectiveness of professional health programs through collaboration to improve health and well-being. Among the key highlights were discussions on leveraging PHPs to support physician well-being, collaborative efforts with graduate medical education, managing co-occurring conditions, neurocognitive testing, and the nuances surrounding ADHD diagnoses in healthcare professionals.
Embracing the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Program:
A notable emphasis was placed on adopting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Program as a model for PHPs to effectively support physician well-being and prevent suicides. This approach highlights the importance of proactive intervention and fostering a supportive environment within healthcare communities.
Collaborative Initiatives with Graduate Medical Education:
The collaboration between PHPs and graduate medical education was highlighted as a promising avenue for addressing physician wellness. By integrating PHP resources and expertise into medical training programs, future healthcare professionals can be better equipped to recognize and address mental health challenges early on in their careers.
Managing Co-occurring Conditions:
Dr. Moss from WPHP presented on managing co-occurring conditions which shed light on the complexities involved in treating physicians with multiple health concerns simultaneously. This underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare delivery that considers both physical and mental well-being.
Insights from Neuropsychological Testing:
Attendees were treated to an excellent presentation on neuropsychological testing and its role in assessing cognitive function and identifying potential areas of impairment. Such testing can provide valuable insights into an individual’s neurological health and aid in the development of tailored treatment plans.
Addressing ADHD Diagnosis in Health Professionals:
The prevalence and pitfalls of ADHD diagnosis in health professionals were explored, drawing attention to the challenges of distinguishing between symptoms of ADHD and those of occupational stress or burnout. This underscores the need for careful evaluation and personalized management approaches when assessing ADHD in healthcare settings.
The FSPHP Annual Education Conference provided a platform for insightful discussions and practical strategies aimed at enhancing physician well-being and preventing suicides. By embracing collaborative initiatives, leveraging evidence-based programs, and staying abreast of emerging trends in mental health assessment and treatment, PHPs can play a pivotal role in supporting the health of healthcare professionals.
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Physician suicide remains a concerning issue, and the Washington Physician Health Program (WPHP) initiatives aim to provide crucial support, resources, and prevention strategies. For insights into WPHP’s comprehensive strategies and the broader implications of physician suicide, explore the recent submission from Dr. Chris Bundy and Dr. Jeffrey Sung to WMC Update!
This article highlights WPHP’s commitment to accurate information dissemination, risk assessment protocols, and educational efforts. Emphasizing a compassionate approach, WPHP navigates the complexities of physician suicide, advocating for dignity, hope, and well-being.
Together, we can support our healthcare professionals and foster awareness on this critical issue.
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In the world of healthcare, professionals often find themselves under immense pressure. The demands of the job, coupled with personal challenges, can sometimes push them to their limits. While Cary’s story is fictional, it exemplifies the kind of transformation that healthcare professionals can achieve with the support of organizations like WPHP. We encourage you to read the recent submission to the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA) to dive into Cary’s journey and learn more about how WPHP is making a difference in the lives of healthcare providers.
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Dr. Carrie Cunningham reveals her lifelong battle with depression, anxiety, and addiction to her peers. Read her powerful story in this recent article in The Guardian and be part of breaking the stigma around mental health in medicine.
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The University of Washington has launched a free three-part course aimed at suicide prevention strategies for veterinary professionals. Our very own Associate Medical Director, Dr. Laura Moss, has invested extensive effort to help develop this comprehensive course. The modules cover a range of topics, including understanding suicide, supporting at-risk individuals, promoting wellness, reducing stigma, and addressing access to lethal means. By completing this course, veterinary professionals gain valuable knowledge on how to promote well-being and create a supportive environment within their field.
Learn more about this free course.
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The Federation of State Physician Health Programs (FSPHP) Annual Education Conference is a highly anticipated event that brings together experts, advocates, and stakeholders in the field of physician health. This year’s conference, held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was no exception. WPHP’s participation in the conference was multifaceted, reflecting the organization’s commitment to advancing the field of physician health through expertise, innovation, and advocacy.
A major highlight for WPHP was the development of an alternative toxicology testing paradigm. At the 2022 FSPHP Education Conference, WPHP presented innovative approaches to toxicology testing that utilized technological advances in specimen collection and validation systems. This year, Dr. Bundy and Ms. Courtney Strong returned to the conference to present follow-up data and answer questions, helping to improve toxicology testing for other programs.
Dr. Bundy also joined panelists J. Corey Feist, JD, MBA, Scott Hambleton, MD, DFASAM, Michael Baron, MD, MPH, DFASAM, to discuss the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation’s mission to support the well-being of healthcare workers at the conference.
In addition, Dr. Bundy participated in the FSMB-FSPHP joint session where he and co-presenter Mike Farrell, JD, Policy Director at WMC, highlighted the collaborative effort between WMC and WPHP. In doing so WPHP and WMC aim to inspire and encourage other states to establish similar coordinated relationships.
Another area of focus during the conference was the presentation by Dr. Bundy, along with Dr. Michael Baron and Buddy Stockwell III, JD, on Medication for Opioid Use Disorder in Safety Sensitive Workers. Their presentation drew on their extensive knowledge and experience to provide insights on this important topic.
WPHP’s involvement in the FSPHP Annual Education Conference was not limited to presentations and panels. The organization also took the opportunity to connect with fellow experts and advocates, building partnerships and networks that will strengthen the field of physician health to improve outcomes for physicians and patients alike.
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Physician burnout, psychiatric problems, and substance use disorders are becoming increasingly prevalent. However, the costs of recovery for physicians enrolled in Physician Health Programs (PHPs) remain unexamined. This survey study published in The American Journal on Addictions recent article sheds light on the financial strain on physicians, especially those in training, and highlights resources for financial assistance such as fee deferrals and sliding scale fees. It’s crucial that access to PHPs is available, destigmatized, and affordable for all physicians.
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Check out this edition of WSMA’s Weekly Rounds to learn more about the updated Washington Practitioner Application. A big thank you to Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) , Washington Medical Commission , and Washington Credentialing Standardization Group (WCSG) for all your support along this journey!
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WPHP works to protect and enhance the confidentiality of our participants. We’ve compiled a list to highlight some of the hard work we’ve done over the past year.
Recently, Dr. Bundy interviewed with InvestigateTV to explain how confidentiality for physicians translates to safer care for patients.
A few weeks ago, in partnership with the Washington State Medical Association and the Washington Medical Commission, WPHP was successful in preserving an important protection for participant confidentiality in the public records act.
WPHP introduced legislation in 2022 that adds enhanced confidentiality protections for program participants. SSB 5496 passed with overwhelming bipartisan support.
In November 2021, WPHP worked closely with the Washington Medical Commission to remove licensure questions about health history, replacing them with an advisory that points to WPHP. The amended application only asks about current impairing or potentially impairing substance use that is not known to WPHP.
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How to Thrive as a Woman Physician provides valuable insights, tip, and resources for all women physicians!
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Tammie Chang, MD is Medical Director of Provider Wellness for MultiCare and Founder of PinkCoatMD which aims to support and empower female physicians.
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Federation of State Physician Health Programs is offering a free on-demand webinar, Physician Suicide Prevention: Listening to the Voices of Experience.
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