Peer Support to Promote Surgeon Well-being: The APSA Program Experience
Topic overview
APSA launched a national peer support program training surgeons to provide emotional first aid to colleagues experiencing adverse events or workplace distress. In its first year, the program received 15 referrals and trained supporters reported applying skills both formally and informally within their institutions.
Key takeaways
- Nearly half of pediatric surgeons experiencing medical errors received no colleague outreach, highlighting a critical gap in support.
- APSA's peer support program trained diverse supporters who handled 15 referrals in year one, mostly for adverse events and toxic environments.
- 60% of referrals were self-initiated, demonstrating surgeons will seek help when accessible peer support is available.
- Over 80% of trained peer supporters applied skills informally within their institutions, amplifying program impact beyond formal referrals.
- National society-based peer support programs are feasible and expand the safety net for surgeons experiencing professional distress.
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