Hi everybody. I have bipolar disorder type 2. My last hospitalization was 8 years ago for a depressive episode. I haven't had a manic episode in 12 years. At the time I didn't have health insurance and wasn't being treated. I have been on medication since then and have not had any issues. Made it through med school just fine. I thought everything was fine until a few days ago when I received a notice that I would need to set up a meeting with my state's physician health program. I start orientation tomorrow and I am supposed to start July 1st (as everybody is, thanks a lot BME, you've had my application since April). I spoke with the medical director of the PHP (which is a 1.5 hour drive away) and he's going to try and do the paperwork via email, but it probably won't even be in until Mon or Tues. So I will probably be starting late, of which I've already informed the residency coordinator. My question is: what do I say about why it's delayed? I'm actually fairly open about my diagnosis. It runs in my family and I really didn't get a say in my genetics. I also realize that the stigma still exists and I don't want to disclose something that's going to put my PD on edge, but I imagine they're going to want to know why the BME is delaying my license. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
On a venting/frustration side-note: This is why people don't disclose mental health diagnoses. My friend has diabetes, which could very easily affect his ability to perform his job, but he doesn't have to provide documentation that he sees an endocrinologist regularly. I feel like I'm being punished for being honest. Thank god I have savings so I can pay my rent in the event that I start late and don't get paid for awhile. I'm lucky in that respect. Proving my point: just got a text from a friend after she got the mental health spiel at her residency orientation. She says the therapist seems awesome and she'd like to go see her, but she's thinking twice about it because of what's happening to me right now.
On a venting/frustration side-note: This is why people don't disclose mental health diagnoses. My friend has diabetes, which could very easily affect his ability to perform his job, but he doesn't have to provide documentation that he sees an endocrinologist regularly. I feel like I'm being punished for being honest. Thank god I have savings so I can pay my rent in the event that I start late and don't get paid for awhile. I'm lucky in that respect. Proving my point: just got a text from a friend after she got the mental health spiel at her residency orientation. She says the therapist seems awesome and she'd like to go see her, but she's thinking twice about it because of what's happening to me right now.
Last edited:
