What is the primary role of the Committee for Physician Health?

• A. To discipline physicians with health issues
• B. To provide confidential assistance to physicians with health concerns
• C. To license physicians
• D. To investigate patient complaints

Answer: (B)

Providing confidential assistance to physicians with health concerns is the primary role. This committee is designed to help doctors who are dealing with health issues—such as mental health challenges or substance use—by offering confidential evaluation, referrals to treatment, and ongoing monitoring. The goal is early intervention and safe return to practice, not punishment. Confidentiality reduces stigma and barriers to seeking help, which helps protect patient safety by keeping physicians healthy and fit to practice. This function is distinct from licensing or disciplinary bodies, which handle certification and penalties for misconduct or impairment, whereas the committee focuses on support, treatment, and rehabilitation.