Addiction in Healthcare: Breaking Barriers and Finding Support Through the Ohio Professionals Health Program (OPHP)

Published: Apr 08, 2025 by Simone Armour

Prepared By: Jim McGovern Esq., & Simone Armour

During the five minutes it takes to read this article, someone in the U.S. will die from a drug overdose—and there’s nearly a 72% chance it’s fentanyl-related.[1] Healthcare workers are not immune to this crisis. In fact, medical professionals are at higher risk for substance use disorders.

Roughly one in every five to seven Registered Nurses (RNs) in the U.S. report misusing drugs or alcohol.[2] Given the professional and legal fears that often discourage reporting, these numbers may even be understated.

Addiction Doesn’t Discriminate

Even those with deep clinical knowledge of addiction can fall prey to it. No one is immune. If you, a colleague, or a loved one in the healthcare profession is struggling, you are not alone—and there is help.

The Ohio Professionals Health Program (OPHP) exists to support licensed healthcare professionals with substance use and mental health concerns. As they state, “seeking help proactively can protect your license and career.”[3]

Our Firm’s Relationship with OPHP

At Graff & McGovern, LPA, we have decades of experience advising healthcare professionals and work closely with OPHP. We regularly refer clients to the program and are ready to interface with them if issues arise. Their services are confidential and non-punitive, with a goal of preserving your ability to safely return to practice.

Check out OPHP’s blog, especially their recent post on substance use in healthcare—why it happens, how to get help, and why early intervention matters.

Why Early Action Matters

A Mayo Clinic study found that treatment programs specifically designed for physicians have high success rates and support a rehabilitative, not punitive, model.[4]

When engaged early, OPHP may help avoid formal disciplinary action or public reprimand. Treatment options include both inpatient and outpatient programs designed to protect your privacy and your license.

But certain lines must not be crossed:

Do not divert medication.
Do not continue practicing if you are impaired and pose a risk to patient safety.

How We Help

OPHP promotes early recognition of substance use disorders. Graff & McGovern’s attorney work closely with OPHP’s team to support our clients through:

Intervention
Treatment
Aftercare and monitoring

If you or someone you care about in the healthcare workforce is struggling, please reach out. You can contact our firm at 614-228-5800 or connect directly with OPHP.

Additional Resources:

Substance Use | OPHP
AA: (614) 253-8501
NA: 1-(800) 587-4232
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988 or 1-(800) 273-8255
Central Ohio Suicide Prevention Hotline: (614) 221-5445
Crisis Line (Franklin County): (614) 276-2273

This article provides general information regarding the Ohio Physicians Health Program and does not constitute legal advice. For individualized guidance, please contact Graff & McGovern, LPA, at 614-228-5800.

[1] Rahul Gupta, MD, MPH, the leader of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). 2023.

[2] (Starr, K. T. The sneaky prevalence of substance abuse in nursing. Nursing, 45(3), 16–17, 2015. DOI: 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000460727.34118.6a).

[3] https://www.ohiophp.org/post/substance-use-disorders-in-healthcare-why-it-happens-and-how-to-seek-help

[4] (Berge KH, Seppala MD, Schipper AM. Chemical dependency and the physician. Mayo Clin Proc. 2009;84(7):625–631. doi: 10.1016/S0025-6196(11)60751-9).

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