Long hours, complex cases, and the emotional weight of patient care can leave physicians feeling overwhelmed. Early results from the Physician Well-being Index (WBI) show that of the approximately 4,100 CMPA members who accessed the tool, 64% are at increased risk of burnout. On top of demanding clinical workloads, medico-legal issues can add stress and uncertainty. In fact, our early data suggests that physicians and residents who are undergoing, or have undergone, a medico-legal event in the last twelve months report worse well-being scores than their peers. We understand these challenges, and we are here to support you.
Understanding where you stand – Physician Well-Being Index (WBI)
It is easy to lose track of your own well-being when you are focused on caring for others. The WBI is a simple, easy-to-use tool developed by the Mayo Clinic that helps you reflect on your current state and identify areas that may need attention. It allows you to compare your results with your peers, track changes over time, and connect with wellness resources in your province or territory.
Your responses are anonymous and confidential. The aggregate data helps CMPA better understand how our members are coping in today’s challenging practice environment and helps us determine how to enhance our support and services. On an individual level, the WBI gives you an opportunity to pause, reflect, and take steps toward supporting your health. Getting started is easy - to access the tool, CMPA members can follow the step-by-step instructions.
Compassionate, expert support from physician advisors
When you contact CMPA, you are not just receiving expert medico-legal advice, you are connecting with a fellow physician who understands the realities of your work. Our knowledgeable physician advisors offer empathetic, non-judgmental guidance to help you navigate your situation and manage the emotional impact.
In 2024, members reached out to our advisors more than 54,000 times. These peer-to-peer conversations are a vital part of our wellness support and can make a real difference when you need it most.
Wellness Support Program
The Wellness Support Program (WSP) provides short-term, peer-to-peer emotional support to physicians experiencing significant distress in relation to medico-legal events. Members can be referred to the WSP by their medico-legal support physician advisor.
Member Support Program
We understand that behind every medico-legal matter is a person. With that in mind, our Member Support Program (MSP) offers tailored support to help members experiencing a high or increasing number of medico-legal issues.
Since its inception, more than 1,000 members have participated in the MSP. Participants have experienced overall significant reductions in hospital and College cases, with an overwhelming majority of participants reporting having taken steps to improve their practice. The program is a practical tool that can help physicians lower medico-legal risk, ease stress, and restore a feeling of satisfaction to the practice of medicine.
The demands of medical practice are many, but you do not have to navigate them alone. Whether you are reflecting with the help of the WBI, connecting with a physician advisor, or engaging in the Member Support Program, CMPA is here for you, every step of the way.
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