Clinicians dedicate their lives to caring for others, but who supports them when they need it the most? At Ob Hospitalist Group (OBHG), we recognize the unique challenges of the profession. That’s why we created the CARE peer support program, providing a safe space for clinicians to connect, share and receive the support they deserve.
What is the OBHG CARE peer support program?
CARE—Clinician Assistance, Recovery & Encouragement—is OBHG’s peer support program designed to help clinicians navigate the emotional toll of adverse events, often referred to as the ‘second victim’ phenomenon.” Research has found that when healthcare providers are involved in an unanticipated patient event, a medical error and/or a patient-related injury, they often feel as though they have failed the patient, second-guessing their clinical skills and knowledge base. For OB/GYN Hospitalists, who may only see their colleagues during morning checkouts or monthly team meetings, a feeling of isolation may make it even more difficult to cope when an unanticipated event occurs.
OBHG’s CARE program provides confidential, peer-to-peer support following a challenging patient care event. Trained colleagues offer empathy, trust and respect, creating a safe space for clinicians to process their experiences.
The importance of the program
Dr. Stephanie Trexler, Market Medical Director and chair of OBHG’s CARE Committee explains, “Our work as clinicians is incredibly rewarding—we get to deliver babies and save lives. However, it can also be the hardest job in the world. When things go wrong, even if it’s through no fault of our own, it can be devastating.” The CARE peer support program provides a safe space for clinicians to talk about these difficult experiences without fear of judgment or repercussions.
When a clinician needs support, they are connected with a “CARE giver,” or fellow clinician from a different hospital program, to ensure a level of anonymity and comfort. The focus is not on dissecting the case but on addressing the emotional impact. This peer support helps remind our clinicians that they are valued and competent, even when outcomes are not as expected.
Personal experience and advocacy
Dr. Trexler shares, “I have personally experienced certain challenges which resulted in one of the hardest times of my life. It made me question my abilities and my worth as a clinician. Through my work in the CARE peer support program, I aim to help others navigate similar experiences, providing them with the support I wish I had.”
She adds, “Bad outcomes and cases tend to make clinicians try to hide. The reason I am part of the CARE program is because I want people to know that it happens to everybody and that you can get through it.”
Vision for the future
OBHG’s CARE program continues to evolve and Dr. Trexler says, “Our team is enhancing its training to further support our volunteers. Our goal is to ensure a strong network of trained professionals is always available to assist their peers so that no one feels alone in their struggles.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Trexler envisions the CARE peer support program continuing to grow to support clinicians. She hopes to expand the program’s reach, providing proactive support for physicians facing litigation. ‘Ideally, we’d get to a point where clinicians continue reaching out whenever they need support, but with a particular focus on guiding OBHG physicians through the challenges of the legal process.'”
The CARE peer support program is more than just a support system; it’s a testament to OBHG’s dedication to its clinicians and the communities they serve. By fostering a culture of empathy and resilience, we ensure that our clinicians can continue providing exceptional care—while also receiving the support they deserve. At OBHG, we believe that taking care of each other is just as important as taking care of patients.