What kinds of problems will the PHP accept and can we be sued for reporting a physician?
• The PHP deals with physicians suffering from alcohol and/or drug abuse, physical disabilities, or mental illness. • Those with behavioral problems or sexual boundary issues are referred for evaluation. Often these are part of an alcohol, drug addiction or psychiatric disorder. Subsequent PHP involvement will depend on the diagnosis. • Your hospital attorney should be involved in the establishment of your medical staff health committee. You need to consult with the PHP and keep your attorney apprised in the management of a potential case. • While the possibility of a suit is always there, that risk must be weighed against the risk of being sued by an injured patient for damage done in the hospital by an impaired physician.
