Why do many healthcare practitioners not have/see a GP on regular basis?
There are several reasons. They vary from being too busy, to a sign a weakness or the belief you can self-manage yourself. The problem is that if you treat yourself, you are not receiving independent and objective advice. There are of course risks with self-diagnosis and self-treatment. The Medical and Dental Board codes of conduct are clear. Good medical practice involves having a general practitioner and for you to maintain your own health and wellbeing. Refer to the Good medical practice: code of conduct 9.2 Your health
From your personal experience, how can you best support a colleague at risk?
Some practical tips would be to be an enquiring and considerate friend and mentor, to listen and be a sounding board but to provide some “tough love “if needed. Again, in referring to the Medical and Dental Board codes of conduct your expected behaviour, practitioners have a responsibility to assist colleagues maintain good health.
A friend told me that once you see a GP for any stress or mental health issues and it is on your record then you need to disclose that when updating or increasing your income protection. Very likely that ANY mental health will not be covered or charge massive premium. Any advice?
In general terms, we cannot answer the question as that is a matter for the insurer. What is clear is that appropriate management of any health issue is paramount. To do so would include appropriate treatment from a suitable practitioner which includes appropriate documentation. This should override any potential financial implications which may flow from seeking appropriate treatment.
Is it mandatory to report mental illness in a fellow doctor?
All health professional have responsibilities in certain circumstances for mandatory notification under the National Law. There is a lot of information and guidelines on the AHPRA website and the Dental Board
Why do you feel young doctors are so at risk?
Young practitioners have additional challenges of ongoing study, living away from home, being possibly isolated from family and friends, may not have the support mechanisms in place, be afraid to express concerns for fear of reprisal or be seen as weak. etc. So, it is important for everyone to do what they can to assist any young practitioner they might see at risk in a positive and proactive way to minimise the possibility of a more serious outcome for that individual.
If you can't change the workload/ issue with workplace, the best is to change the workplace, right?
Sadly, in some circumstances that may be the best outcome for the individual if that is at all possible. To move on and start afresh new beginning and put the past behind can be the better strategy.