Resource Library

Vanderbilt’s Center for Patient and Professional Advocacy has a well-known program where respected physicians act as peer messengers to colleagues about professionalism and well-being concerns. While often cited for addressing behavior issues, these peer messengers are essentially champions of a positive practice culture. They deliver feedback to peers in a supportive way and help align physician behaviors with core values . This program shows how champions can be recruited and “resourced” (trained with data and coaching techniques) to promote accountability and resilience, without punitive measures. An organization could adapt this model to train physician champions who proactively reach out to struggling colleagues, thus fostering a supportive environment.