First Choice Health Home : Physician Assistance Program : Family Support

The following frequently asked questions describe our Physician Assistance Program. If you have questions that are not answered here please call us at 800-777-1323 or contact us by email.

What Is A Physician Assistance Program?

The Physician Assistance Program is an external, professional counseling service provided by the Medical Staff Office of the hospital where you practice. It is available anytime you or your immediate family members are experiencing problems. PAP services are available to your children in school away from home, and our Elder Care Program can assist you in planning or coordinating services for your parents, regardless of where they live in the United States.

How Do I Contact You?

There are several ways you can contact the PAP.

• 800-777-1323 -- Our main number - answered 24-hours per day, 7-days per week. A counselor is always available to help you.
• 800-777-4969 -- Our toll free TDD number for the hearing impaired.
• e-mail us at info@firstchoicedoc.com.

Will the Medical Staff Office OR Anyone Else Know I Used the Program?

No, the Physician Assistance Program is a non-punitive, confidential program. Confidentiality regarding your use of the program is protected under law. We will not release any information regarding program use unless you specify in writing what information is to be released, and to whom.

As in your practice, there are certain behaviors and actions that the PAP is required by law to report. These include child and elder abuse, and threat of harm to self or others.

How Much Does It Cost?

There is NO COST to you or your immediate family members to utilize PAP services.

What Kinds Of Problems Are Covered By The PAP?

It is impossible to offer an exhaustive list. Here is a sampling of issues the EAP can help you resolve:

Given the pace and conflicting demands of contemporary life, there are many possible reasons you may choose to talk with one of our behavioral healthcare specialists. We invite you to contact us anytime a need arises.

What Can I Expect When I Call For An Appointment?

When you call our toll free number, you will talk with a trained Customer Service Representative who will ask a few brief questions. The PAP will want to know the name of the hospital at which you practice, the type of problem you are experiencing, and your preferences about location & time for seeing a provider. We will ask for your contact information and clarify your preferences about receiving E-mail or voicemail messages from the PAP. The PAP will select a network provider who is experienced working with the concerns you want to resolve, and located near your practice, hospital or home.

Our staff is keenly aware of the importance of providing discrete & confidential services to physician families. This can be a special concern for practitioners in remote areas or small communities. The PAP will ensure access to services that are not complicated by the effects of a current or past professional relationship.

Twenty-four hours per day, seven-days per week, a counselor is always immediately available to talk with you or your family member.

How Can I Learn More About the PAP and Healthy Lifestyles?

Follow this link to view a 15-minute presentation which provides additional information & details about the Physician Assistance Program services. You can also visit our Online training area for helpful information on balancing work, family, and personal life.

Can You Tell Me More About Elder Care Services?

Today, many members of nuclear families are separated by thousands of miles. There may be situations in which parents have problems caring for themselves or doing the tasks of daily living - cleaning, cooking and shopping. Your parent may need transportation to an appointment or help with medication. Perhaps they need physical therapy or in-home nursing services. Out of love, concern and respect for our parents, we want the very best care available. Our Elder Care Referral Program is provided through Sound Options, a company that specializes in arranging quality care for elders throughout the United States.

Contact the PAP at (800)777-1323 or follow this link to learn more about Eldercare and other Work/Life Resources.

Do you have another question?