Our History

The Physician Health Program of British Columbia (PHP) was established in 1979 as a confidential service to respond to the needs of physicians who were struggling with substance use disorders. 

The late Dr. Douglas Graham was the PHP’s first Clinical Director. He remained in that role until he retired in 2001. 

In 2002, Dr. Paul Farnan was appointed as the Clinical and Executive Director.  Over the next few years, the program experienced tremendous growth in services offered.

In 2006, the PHP responded to the changing needs of physicians by undertaking a comprehensive strategic planning process, and became a stand-alone nonprofit organization.    Also at this time, the program received matching funding from the BC Ministry of Health Services to allow it to expand its role in improving the health of BC's doctors.  In 2007, Dr. Farnan left the program to pursue other opportunities.

Early in 2008, Dr. Andrew Clarke assumed the role of Executive Director.  Soon after this, the program began further enhancements to the services it provides.  These included a 24/7 help line, no-charge access to a wide network of clinical counsellors across BC, and an expanded range of clinical and educational/preventive services.