Physician Recovery Network

Addiction and Recovery Services for Physicians:

The Physician Recovery Network (PRN) is a confidential, non-coercive, and non-punitive alternative to formal disciplinary action offered by the Idaho State Board of Medicine. The PRN is a program to facilitate prevention, identification, intervention, and rehabilitation for Idaho physicians or physician assistants who have, or are at risk for developing disorders, which are associated with functional impairment, or suffering from chemical abuse or dependency, mental health issues, or behavioural problems. The PRN works in a manner consistent with the laws and medical practice acts of the State of Idaho to provide a safe environment in a medical setting and in conjunction with the Idaho Medical Association.

The purpose of the program is to assist professionals and their families in identifying alcohol, drug, or behavioural problems that pose a potential threat to that professional, the family, or the patients/clients. The PRN will work to identify and facilitate acute treatment and to provide long-term support for the professional to return to a productive place within his/her profession. While the program provides no direct counseling, treatment, or aftercare services, it does support and endorse the development of self-help groups at the local level.

The PRN is a resource for professionals, their families, colleagues, and other affiliates. Disciplinary action does little to intervene in the disease process and may frequently be counterproductive to identification and professional reintegration. Treatment has proven to be effective for both the individual and society. By providing professionals an opportunity to enter into treatment and to recover from their diseases early in the disease process, the PRN can serve to minimize negative impacts on the professionals, patients/clients and their families and friends.

“Research repeatedly has shown that physicians generally fare much better than the general public following addiction treatment. Although accommodations may be needed (e.g., decreasing hours or eliminating night shifts), approximately 75% to 85% are able to return to work, do not use drugs, and lead a productive life. As a result, it has been suggested that this PHP treatment approach (including drug screening) should be implemented as the standard of care for all individuals with suspected addiction, not just physicians.”

Successful Treatment of Physicians With Addictions Psychiatric Times. Vol. 26 No. 9 August 28, 2009

Five Year Outcomes of Physicians With Addictions BMJ 2008;337:a2038

Addiction Recovery Services Provided by Southworth Associates for Physician Recovery Network (PRN) Program:

• Confidential Consultation
• Interventions
• Assessment
• Referrals
• Recovery Monitoring – The PRN program monitors participants while in treatment and recovery.
• Relapse Management
• Education and Research
• Consulting resource for Idaho Hospitals, medical staff and organizations
• Support Resource
• Advocacy - The PRN advocates for the right to continue working when there is documentation of abstinence and recovery from chemical dependency.

There are two different treatment tracks into our program:

Self-Referral: An impaired physician, or physician assistant, who does not have official Stipulations and Orders as drafted by the Idaho State Board of Medicine, may be referred to the PRN program in person, or by an agent of the physician/physician assistant (family member, colleague, friend or employer).

Board of Medicine Referral: The Idaho State Board of Medicine will draft a formal Stipulations and Orders for the impaired physician. Part of the Stipulations and Orders will include a requirement to be under contract and maintain compliance with the PRN Program.

Visit the Idaho State Board of Medicine
Visit the Idaho Medical Association
Visit the Federation of State Physician Health Programs

Is It Time to Ask for Help?

Additionally, there is a job placement service dedicated to helping physicians in recovery:

NeoVocatus seeks to be the premier, service oriented placement firm dedicated to placing physicians who have experienced addiction related set backs. In order to execute on our vision, we will work with state PHP's, Boards of Healing Arts, treatment programs, and healthcare organizations. We facilitate the placement of physicians in only suitable and supportive environments.

Dr. Bob's Medical Jobs knows that finding the perfect job, as a healthcare provider, could not be more difficult and daunting than it is for you. The rigors of alcohol or drug rehabilitation and all the problems and stigmas associated with it, are almost unbearable. Don’t be self-conscious telling us about your problem or situation, because we have heard it all before. Believe me, you are only special to your mother. We also know that your situation was created by you, and is entirely your fault. If excuses are a priority for you, then call someone else. Our job is to wade through all of the turmoil that you have created, and get you back on your feet.