The Physician Health Program of British Columbia provides around-the-clock support to doctors and their families who may need professional help with particular issues they are facing - issues that may affect relationships, either at work or at home.

Our Services and Resources

The Physician Health Program offers completely confidential support and referrals for problems you may be facing, including but not limited to:

• Mental health issues: stress, fatigue, burnout, depression or anxiety
• Relationship stress involving co-workers, colleagues and family members
• Career and life transitions: relationship breakup, retirement stress or changing professional interests
• Substance use disorders: intervention to relapse prevention
• Financial issues: job layoffs within the family, serious illness or disability insurance matters
• Professional support: work accommodation issues and other occupational health matters
• Concern for colleagues: advice on how to approach a colleague who may be in distress
• Referrals: help finding a family doctor, psychiatrist or other medical treatment

Who can use Physician Health Program services?

• All British Columbia physicians
• Physicians-in-training, including medical students and residents
• Physicians’ families – spouses/partners/dependent children

How Can I Access These Resources?

• Call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-663-6729.

What Happens When I Call the Helpline?

When you call our helpline, you will be offered the option of listening to a brief privacy policy.  You'll then speak to an Intake Counsellor who will quickly determine with you what your needs are.

The Intake Counsellor will offer to set up a telephone appointment with a Program Physician.  Your appointment will be booked at a time that is convenient for you.  If your need is urgent, we will connect you with a physician in a time frame that meets your needs.

In addition, you will be offered access to a trusted network of clinical counsellors.  If your Intake Counsellor is able to discern your needs without first arranging an appointment with one of our Program Physicians, your first appointment with a clinical counsellor may be booked during your initial call.  Counselling in person is available in most areas of the province, and counselling by telephone is available in all areas.

A limited number of counselling sessions are provided at no charge when booked through our provider network.