What is Practitioner Health
Practitioner Health is a free, confidential NHS service designed specifically for doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals in England. It offers primary care-based mental health and addiction support tailored to the unique challenges faced by those in the healthcare sector.
Who is eligible
- Doctors and dentists registered with the GMC or GDC and living or working in England.
- Medical and dental trainees, including GP trainees and final-year students.
- Healthcare professionals in senior roles or those unable to access local services due to confidentiality concerns.
- Doctors and dentists in the Isle of Man, Guernsey, and Jersey.
The service is not intended for individuals already receiving care for the same issue through local NHS services and it is not an emergency service. Alternative crisis support is available.
What the Service Offers
- Comprehensive assessments for a wide range of mental health conditions and addictions.
- Treatment plans that may include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Brief psychotherapy
- Group therapy sessions
- Prescription medication
- Case management
- Referral to inpatient rehabilitation if necessary
- Consultations primarily conducted via secure video technology, with face-to-face appointments arranged when clinically indicated.
What the Service Does Not Provide
- Specialist mental health services: While the service specializes in understanding healthcare professionals’ needs, it does not limit care to specific mental health disorders.
- Occupational health assessments: The service does not conduct return-to-work assessments or formulate reasonable adjustments.
- Emergency services: Practitioner Health is not an emergency or urgent service. In crisis situations, individuals should contact emergency services or their local mental health crisis team.
- Long-term therapy: The service does not provide or fund longer-term talking therapy but can guide and signpost individuals to appropriate resources.
Confidentiality and Professional Boundaries
Practitioner Health operates independently of employers, contracting bodies, and regulators. Confidentiality is paramount, with information shared only in exceptional circumstances where there is a significant and immediate risk to the individual or others.
How to Access the Service
Self-referral: Complete the online registration and wellbeing assessment forms available on the Practitioner Health website.
Contact Practitioner Health
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm; Saturday, 8am to 2pm
- NHS Practitioner Health :
Riverside Medical Centre
Hobart House, St George Wharf
London
SW8 2JB- Phone Number:
- 0300 0303 300
Additional Resources and Support
Practitioner Health collaborates with various organizations to provide additional support:
Doctors’ Support Network: Peer support for doctors and medical students with mental health concerns.
Sick Doctors Trust: Support for doctors and dentists concerned about their use of drugs or alcohol.
Doctors in Distress: Promotes and protects the mental health of healthcare workers and prevents suicides in the medical profession.