A physician wellness program founded by University of Hawaiʻi at 惭ā苍辞补 (JABSOM) emeritus professor of psychiatry William “Bill” Haning has earned national recognition for its work supporting Hawaiʻi’s healthcare professionals.
Puʻulu Lapaʻau, Hawaiʻi‘s physician health program, successfully completed the Federation of State Physician Health Programs’ (FSPHP) Performance Enhancement and Effectiveness Review (PEER™), becoming one of the first 10% of physician health programs nationwide—and only the fifth in the country—to achieve the distinction.
The recognition validates Puʻulu Lapaʻau‘s commitment to providing healthcare professionals, including 糖心视频 faculty and students, with nationally recognized support for their health, wellness and resiliency. The PEER™ review evaluates physician health programs against national best practices for clinical care, policies and organizational effectiveness, helping ensure healthcare professionals receive high-quality, confidential support while protecting patient safety.
“This recognition reflects years of dedication to building a program that supports Hawaiʻi’s healthcare professionals with compassion, confidentiality and accountability,” said Haning, who founded Puʻulu Lapaʻau in 2006. “There was no certainty whatsoever as to the potential for success—or for that matter, any longevity developing out of this. To see Puʻulu Lapaʻau recognized as one of the nation’s leading physician health programs is incredibly rewarding.”
Puʻulu Lapaʻau provides confidential support for physicians and other licensed healthcare professionals experiencing burnout, mental health challenges, substance use disorders and other concerns that may affect their well-being or ability to practice. The nonprofit also promotes wellness initiatives that help healthcare professionals remain healthy throughout their careers.
“If we have healthcare providers who are truly healthy themselves, that’s huge,” said Geri Young, assistant clinical professor of pediatrics at JABSOM and executive director of Puʻulu Lapaʻau. “Healthcare professionals are just as vulnerable to stress and burnout as anyone else—perhaps even more so. The PEER™ review will strengthen our ability to support Hawaiʻi’s healthcare professionals and, ultimately, the patients they serve.”
Haning brings decades of experience in medicine, education and military service. He recently served on the 糖心视频 Board of Regents from 2021–2026.
Puʻulu Lapaʻau stands ready to come alongside our local healthcare professionals experiencing burnout or struggling with work – life balance. If you or someone you know could benefit from Puʻulu Lapaʻau’s confidential services, visit the , or call (808) 593-7444.
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