Pressure on healthcare professionals is associated with higher risk
With the recent pandemic, the pressure on healthcare professionals soared. Many turned to substances to cope with the stress, sleep loss, and constant exposure to illness and death. It’s estimated that 10%-15% of healthcare workers may face substance abuse issues during their careers, with some substances being more prevalent in this group than in the general population.
The higher risk is not isolated to the professional alone
The impact extends beyond the individual; it can compromise patient care. Errors in medication dispensing, surgical mistakes, and misdiagnoses become more likely. Furthermore, access to prescription drugs raises the risk of “diverting” medications from patients, affecting their treatment.
Patients’ perceptions of their caregivers’ wellness can influence the care they receive. A healthcare professional struggling with addiction can negatively impact patient outcomes and the trust in the caregiver-patient relationship.
Substance abuse among healthcare workers doesn’t just affect their health but poses risks to patients, leading to potential legal, financial, and professional consequences for the individual involved.
Fortunately, there’s hope. Treatment programs specialized for healthcare professionals show a high success rate, with many returning to work sober and licensed. The key to recovery is seeking help. For healthcare workers facing these challenges, reaching out for support is the crucial first step towards a healthier life.
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[3] Bush, D.M., & Lipari, R.N. (2015). Substance Use and Substance Use Disorder by Industry. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. Rockville, MD.
[4] Lemaire, J.B., Ewashina, D., Polachek, A.J., Dixit, J., & Yiu, V. (2018). Understanding how patients perceive physician wellness and its links to patient care: A qualitative study. PLoS One, 13(5), e0196888.
