Connie's story

In 1996, Dr. Ed Easingwood, died of a drug overdose after a long struggle with chemical dependency. After that life-altering event, his wife, Dr. Connie Ruffo, approached the B.C. Physician Support Program.

In 2005, motivated by her loss, she led a group of physicians at Peace Arch Hospital in brainstorming about a grassroots physician health and wellness program that would educate physicians on how to stay healthy and help distressed colleagues.

The Peace Arch PAW held its first meeting in February 2007 – a dinner and discussion with psychiatrist Dr. Mike Myers on physician suicide. 

“Sadly, it took a physician’s suicide to provide the impetus for what we are doing,” says Dr. Ruffo. But we are using that event to generate discussions on sensitive topics that can educate doctors on wellness and try to ensure such events do not happen again.”

The appetite among doctors for discussion around physician wellness took off. In 2007 and 2008, various sessions on topics regarding physician health were held, including those on burnout, emotional IQ, marital issues and balance in life.    

Dr. Ruffo sees 2009 as a year for building community and strengthening collegiality. Her group held an “End of Summer Celebration” in September 2008 to say good-bye to retiring colleagues and welcome newcomers.  It strengthened old ties and forged new ones. It made participants feel good about being part of the medical community. 
 
Her group now aims to improve communications among doctors, especially in professional settings. “One of the most difficult problems in hospitals can be the disruptive behavior of a physician,” she says.  “So, teaching compassionate communication skills is enormously helpful while letting us approach a distressed colleague, without being concerned about crossing the line of privacy.”

One of the biggest challenges with PAW programs is the time required to organize speakers, advertise events and give doctors what they want and need. For instance, sometimes they just want downtime together to bond and discuss personal issues. Many have suggested activities like sporting events, including cycling or kayaking.

Dr. Ruffo says that building such a program takes time and passion. Physician input is crucial too. “I rely on them for ideas and to help bring those ideas to fruition. It is their support and suggestions that make this program happen and flourish.”