It is frequently said that the primary role of a state medical regulatory board is to protect the public. Unfortunately, this concept has evolved in some regions suggesting there is a conflict between patients and their physicians.[1] In other words, the message can be sent that patients must be protected from physicians. Truly there haveRead More
Dr. Gregory Skipper Medical Director CONTACT As we have all been adjusting to the COVID pandemic and its limitations, I have been providing free video presentations for Physician Health Program staff in lieu of in-personal seminars. While this ongoing series is available and accessible, we have heard they can be difficult to locate soRead More
Utilizing blood phosphatidylethanol (PEth) in abstinence monitoring programs (particularly with health professional, airline pilot, and/or other professional monitoring) as a means to detect relapse to alcoholic beverage use is a relatively new development over the past decade. PEth is a minor metabolite of ethanol formed when an enzyme, phospholipase D (PLD), binds ethanol to phosphatidylcholineRead More
Physician health programs (PHPs) provide state disciplinary authorities (medical boards) what wellbeing committees (WCs) provide for hospital disciplinary authorities (medical executive committees). The former regarding licensure and the latter hospital privileges, both necessary for most physicians to practice. In the few states, like California, with no PHP, wellbeing committees take on added responsibilities. In statesRead More
“Safeguarding the public by improving physician and other professionals’ health and wellbeing.” A pathway to success in challenging times. With so much uncertainty and stress in the world today—a pandemic, protests, massive wildfires, and a contentious presidential election—one thing remains constant: Dr. Gregory Skipper and the Center for Professional Recovery (CPR) are here for you.Read More
“Mandatory evacuation now!” the police commanded. In my last 30 years working in addiction and treatment, I have seen my fair share of challenges. There have been cross country moves, changing facilities and staff changes that were really hard, but the last year has been extraordinary. It all started in November last year when weRead More
