This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.

AMA implements policies to support well-being of physicians-in-training

The AMA recently adopted new policies for physicians-in-training to receive timely and confidential medical and mental health services during their medical schooling or residencies and fellowships to help sustain their personal health and wellness while reducing burnout, according to press release.

“Many physicians-in-training do not seek out treatment for physical, mental health or addiction issues because they are concerned about confidentiality, the possible negative impact that receiving treatment could have on their future career in medicine, or burdening colleagues with extra work,” Omar Z. Maniya, AMA Board Member and medical student, said in a press release. “With a high number of medical students and residents experiencing depression, burnout and suicide, and too many physicians overlooking their own health needs, we must do everything we can to reduce the barriers and stigmas that keep them from receiving care.”

The new policy takes seriously the confidentiality of physicians-in-training, and requires state medical boards to avoid asking about an applicant’s history of mental health diagnosis or treatment, focusing solely on present mental illness or addiction issues.

In addition, they are required to recognize “safe haven” nonreporting, which allows potential physicians to apply for licensure without having to disclose that they are receiving treatment for mental health.

The policy urges the creation of screening programs for mental health awareness and suicide prevention that offer anonymity, confidentiality and administrative action protection in medical schools. These programs should also allow students who are considered to be at-risk to receive proactive intervention. The new policies expand AMA’s long-term efforts to reduce physician burnout and construct the medical school of the future.

“The AMA is committed to ensuring a healthier practice environment for physicians and closing the gaps that exist in medical education to improve the health of the nation,” the organization said in the press release.

Disclosure: Healio.com/InternalMedicine was unable to confirm financial disclosures at the time of publication.

For more information:

https://www.ama-assn.org/ama-adopts-policies-support-physician-wellness-mental-health