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While BMC2 has worked to improve quality of care and outcomes for patients across Michigan for nearly three decades, an overlooked aspect is the impact adverse events can have on a surgeon's well-being.
More than half of physicians know a physician who has either considered, attempted, or died by suicide in their career. It's estimated that one million Americans lose their physician to suicide each year.
“There is increasing evidence that shows experiencing complications during a procedure can lead to long-term negative psychological complications for surgeons, including changes in how we treat future patients,” BMC2 Program Director and Director of BMC2 Vascular Surgery, Dr. Nick Osborne explained.
Under Dr. Osborne’s leadership, BMC2 is partnering with the Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative and its MUSIC CARES program to provide peer support to vascular surgeons who experience an adverse event.
“The network is specifically designed to offer emotional support by connecting surgeons with a trusted colleague who has been through a similar experience,” explained Dr. Osborne.
Peer supporters will offer opportunities for conversations, provide support, and offer referrals to additional resources as needed. The program is free and confidential.
“CARES fills a gap of having easy access to anonymous peer support in times of need,” said Craig Rogers, M.D., a MUSIC CARES peer supporter — Henry Ford Health. “Helping our patients defines us as physicians. We need to have a similar passion for helping each other.”
Submit your interest to volunteer as a peer mentor by filling out this Qualtrics form.