OMA launches new confidential peer support program for physician mental health

The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) has launched a new peer support program, allowing doctors to connect with a fellow colleague if they need someone to talk to.The program is comprised of 25 physicians from various specialties, who can be reached for emotional support or guidance, where appropriate. Conversations with peer supporters are kept confidential and can be done over the phone, through video call, or even in person, if possible. “I see (the program) playing a valuable role in encouraging others to maintain their own mental health, or their own health in general,” Ottawa psychiatrist Dr. Christopher Eaton, who is a peer supporter in the program, said in an OMA news release. “And it's not just giving somebody advice. It's more about reflecting on how . . . I could potentially do things differently."Collingwood-based family physician Dr. Caroline Bowman, another peer supporter in the program, says it can be very helpful to speak to a fellow physician who “understands the culture of medicine and the current climate in healthcare.”“I think there can be a lot of shame for physicians when they feel like things aren’t going the way they thought they were supposed to be,” she said in the news release.However, the OMA note that the program is not a replacement for therapy and peer supporters cannot diagnose or treat, although they may be able to connect you to additional services.Physicians wishing to connect to a peer supporter can call the main intake line at 1-800-851-6606 or email php@oma.org. Those interested in joining as a peer supporter can email peersupport@oma.org.

OMA launches new confidential peer support program for physician mental health

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