Role of Stigma for Health Care Professionals With Nonmedical Substance Use

Abstract

Background: Stigma toward those with non-medical substance use may present as anticipated, perceived, enacted, or internalized stigma. Objective: The purpose of the study was to describe the role of stigma on health care professionals with non-medical substance use, from the perspective of treatment providers. Soliciting information about stigma from treatment providers is a unique perspective lacking in current literature. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used with semi-structured interviews of treatment providers (N = 16) in Colorado. Inductive content analysis was used to identify concepts and themes across interviews. Results: Findings showed that stigma is a major concern and a barrier for health care professionals seeking substance use treatment. Nurses and physicians demonstrate shame and guilt (internalized stigma) around their substance use. These professionals also experience fear around their reputation (perceived stigma) and challenges around re-entry to the workforce after treatment (anticipated stigma). Conclusions: The awareness of existing stigma as well as internalized stigma impacts how health care professionals approach treatment, recovery, and returning to work.