Experiences of physicians investigated for professionalism concerns: a narrative review.
Im DS, Tamarelli CM, Shen MR. Experiences of physicians investigated for professionalism concerns: a narrative review. J Gen Intern Med. 2024;39(2):283-300. doi:10.1007/s11606-023-08550-4.
When a physician's unprofessional behavior is reported by patients, families, or staff, an appropriate investigation must be conducted. While the investigations are critical for ensuring patient safety, physicians experience negative emotional and mental impacts, as well as changes to their clinical practice (e.g., defensive medicine). This review summarizes studies on physicians' experiences during and after investigations and mitigation strategies.