“I would never want to have a mental health diagnosis on my record”: A Survey of female physicians on mental health diagnosis, treatment, and reporting.

Most state medical boards require the disclosure of mental health problems on physician licensing applications. The following study investigates the consequences of this practice, which is theorized to increase stigma about mental health and prevent help-seeking among physicians. After administering a 24 question survey, the study found that women physicians report substantial and persistent fear regarding stigma which inhibits both treatment and disclosure. Licensing questions, particularly those asking about a diagnosis or treatment rather than functional impairment may contribute to treatment reluctance.

Topics:
Rules and Regulations, Society and Culture

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