Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PHP?
A Professionals Health Program (PHP) is a confidential resource that supports healthcare professionals dealing with burnout, mental health or substance use disorders, and other potentially impairing conditions. The North Carolina Physicians Health Program (NCPHP) was founded in 1988 to provide early intervention and support to physicians. Since then, we have expanded to help other healthcare professionals (PAs, Veterinarians, Counselors) continue practicing safely and effectively. In 2019 we began doing business as the North Carolina Professional Health Program to better represent all of the professions we serve.
How do I make a referral to NCPHP?
You may call (919) 870-4480 to make a confidential referral. Visit our Referrals page for more details on the referral process.
What services does NCPHP offer to potentially impaired healthcare professionals?
NCPHP begins with a supportive, confidential screening interview to better understand the professional’s situation. This may lead to a referral for assessment, treatment, or other appropriate services. NCPHP may recommend monitoring or other support services based on the referral’s findings.
How is NCPHP funded?
NCPHP is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Funding sources include:
- North Carolina Medical Board
- North Carolina Board of Pharmacy
- North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board
- North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors
We also receive funding through donations and monitoring fees.
Is there a fee for NCPHP services?
Not for the first meeting with NCPHP. We want to make our program accessible as possible. We may ask you to provide some medical history, or get some tests run, and if so, you will be responsible for those charges. If someone is being actively monitored by NCPHP, then they are responsible for:
- Monitoring service fees
- Toxicology testing fees (if needed)
- Any third-party services, such as psychotherapy sessions or psychiatric consults.
For the record: NCPHP never allows someone’s financial situation to prevent them from getting NCPHP services. We use a sliding scale for our fees and do everything we can to help those in need.
Does NCPHP accept insurance?
NCPHP does not provide medical services, so our program fees are not covered by insurance. However, referrals for additional assessments or treatments may be covered by your insurance plan. Need-based scholarships may be available to help cover certain third-party expenses.
Is my participation with NCPHP confidential?
Yes. Your information is kept strictly confidential and is not shared with anyone outside of NCPHP unless you sign a written release. Per state laws, however, we do have to notify your licensure board if you are not safe to practice.
What is the relationship between NCPHP and the North Carolina Medical Board (NCMB)?
NCPHP operates under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the North Carolina Medical Board and the North Carolina Medical Society. Similar MOUs exist with other licensing boards, such as:
- North Carolina Board of Pharmacy
- North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board
- North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors
Is the North Carolina Medical Board informed about all referrals to NCPHP?
If the referral comes directly from the NCMB, relevant information is shared appropriately. However, self-referrals or those from other entities (like employers or hospitals) remain anonymous, provided safety conditions are met.
When would an anonymous referral be reported to their licensure board, e.g, the NC Medical Board?
Anonymity is strictly maintained except in rare cases. Per various state laws, however, NCPHP is required to report someone to their licensure board under certain conditions, such as:
- The individual is an imminent danger to patient safety.
- They are being monitored by NCPHP and refuse to honor their monitoring contract.
- They are still impaired after treatment.
An anonymity break decision is very carefully considered and almost always made with input from an oversight committee. For more information about persons licensed by the NCMB, please see NCGS 90-21.22 (d).
What is a Caduceus meeting?
Caduceus meetings are support groups specifically for medical professionals in recovery.
Where can I find physician health programs in other states?
Visit the Federation of State Physician Health Programs (FSPHP) website for a full directory of programs across the U.S.
