Arizona’s New Health Professional Wellness Programs: Five Things You Should Know

For the past few years, healthcare professionals have faced unprecedented challenges, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent survey revealed that one of the top drivers for nurses leaving their current positions was the emotional toll of the job.[1] Conditions such as understaffing can lead to additional stress for physicians and other…

White tablets spilling out of medication bottles, addiction concept.

Arizona Relaxes Restrictions on Opioid Prescribing  

In 2018, Governor Ducey signed the Arizona Opioid Epidemic Act, which set strict limits on opioid prescribing for physicians who practice in Arizona.[1]  That legislation prohibited health care professionals from prescribing more than a five-day supply of opioids, with certain exceptions, e.g., patients with cancer pain, and patients in hospice.  The legislation was the product…

Hot Topics in Risk Management | Considerations for Requiring COVID-19 Vaccinations for Medical Practice Staff

As COVID-19 vaccines become more widely available, health care organizations, medical practices, and other employers may consider whether, and under what circumstances, they will require employees to be vaccinated.  Employers who address this issue must balance the interests of patients and employees, who have a right to a safe office environment, with the interests of…