The Disruptive Provider

Abstract

It is estimated that less than 5% of physicians can be labeled as “disruptive providers” who demonstrate behaviors such as verbal or physical abuse. Passive-aggressive behaviors are also commonly manifested by these providers. Proceduralists are more often labeled as disruptive providers as compared to primary care physicians, which means that anesthesiologists will likely encounter these individuals during their career. Disruptive behaviors have been associated with decreased communication, worse patient outcomes, and increased staff turnover, and they present a danger to patient safety. Organizations need to clearly define policies aimed at engaging disruptive providers and modifying poor behaviors and have a culture that does not promote these behaviors or individuals who demonstrate them.