We are living in uncertain times. During this unprecedented global health crisis, we can anticipate that our physicians will experience increased feelings of stress and anxiety. Our physicians are working at the coal face of the crisis. This pushes the profession from a work situation, which is always demanding and stressful, to one which now includes personal peril.
It is essential that we provide a response to those of our colleagues who are in need. As such, Leslie Flynn, Chair of the Physician Wellness Advisory Committee, in partnership with Claudio Soares, Head of the Department of Psychiatry have established a working group whose goal is to provide an urgent response program for our physicians. Together with Renee Fitzpatrick, Melissa Andrew, Ruzica Jokic and Johanne Roberge, a roster of psychiatrists and colleagues from allied health disciplines has been established. These volunteers have stepped up to participate in this initiative to provide support to our colleagues at this time of unprecedented crisis. Such support will be offered in many ways - from ensuring that physicians become aware of existing tools and resources to better cope with stress/anxiety to rapidly arranging clinical consultations to be provided by this roster of colleagues.
Further information with instructions regarding access to these resources and booking for clinical support will be disseminated in the very near future. Any questions can be directed to Leslie Flynn or Claudio Soares.
You’ll also find physician wellness resources on the SEAMO website and can access the Queen’s Employee and Family Assistance Program at any time.