Healthcare Workers’ Substance Abuse and Dependency Rates Vary by Profession
A significant study found many U.S. healthcare professionals risk alcohol and drug dependency each year. This issue is not just personal. It affects patient safety too. Substance abuse rates vary by healthcare field.
Many factors can cause alcohol dependency in healthcare workers, including genetics and stress from their jobs. High-pressure situations and exposure to trauma are common in these roles.
Early intervention with proper treatment can often lead to recovery. Continued care boosts health recovery chances. But, untreated alcohol use disorder can lead to major health issues.
Rates of substance abuse vary across healthcare professions. Some report more alcohol use than others:
– Dentists often drink more and face more social drinking offers.
– Pharmacists’ alcohol use disorder (AUD) rates match the general population, but some studies suggest higher substance use disorder (SUD) rates, especially with opioids.
– About 10-12% of physicians will face chemical dependency, half due to alcohol.
– Around 10% of nurses struggle with alcohol abuse, with 6% affected at work.
Treatment
Treatment usually involves various therapies. Healthcare professionals have unique needs, leading to specialized programs for them. If you’re in healthcare and struggling with alcohol, seek help from a certified center.
[1] Kenna, G.A., Lewis, D.C. “Risk factors for alcohol and other drug use by healthcare professionals.” Substance Abuse Treatment Prevention Policy. 2008.
[2] Richman, J.A. “Occupational stress, psychological vulnerability, and alcohol-related problems over time in future physicians. Alcohol Clinical Experimental Research, 16, 166–171.” 1993.
[3] Kenna, G.A., Lewis, D.C. “Risk factors for alcohol and other drug use by healthcare professionals.” Substance Abuse Treatment Prevention Policy. 2008.
[4] American Society of Addiction Medicine. “Public policy statement on physicians and other healthcare professionals with addiction.” 2020.
[5] Ibid.
[6] Gordis, E. “The Etiology, Consequences and Treatment of Alcoholism.” Liver Transplantation and Surgery, Vol 3, No 3. 1997.
[7] Mee-Lee, D., et al. “The ASAM Criteria: Treatment Criteria for Addictive, Substance-Related, and Co-Occurring Conditions. 3rd ed.” 2013.
[8] Kenna, G.A. & Wood, M.D. “Alcohol use by healthcare professionals..” 2004.
[9] Journal of the American Pharmacists Association. “State programs assisting pharmacy professionals with substance use disorders.” 2016.
[10] Mee-Lee, D., et al. “The ASAM Criteria: Treatment Criteria for Addictive, Substance-Related, and Co-Occurring Conditions. 3rd ed.” 2013; Berge, K.H., et al. “Chemical dependency and the physician.” Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2009.
[11] Mee-Lee, D., et al. “The ASAM Criteria: Treatment Criteria for Addictive, Substance-Related, and Co-Occurring Conditions. 3rd ed.” 2013; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Substance Use and Substance Use Disorder By Industry. 2015.
[12] Mee-Lee, D., et al. “The ASAM Criteria: Treatment Criteria for Addictive, Substance-Related, and Co-Occurring Conditions. 3rd ed.” 2013; Berge, K.H., et al. “Chemical dependency and the physician.” Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2009.
