Alabama recognized for removing mental health questions from medical license applications
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The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners recently removed some intrusive mental health questions from the state’s medical license applications.
That change was made to help physicians seek mental health care without the fear of professional repercussions. And now, that change is being recognized on a national level.
The state has been recognized as a 2025 Wellbeing First Champion, presented by the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation. The other winners included Atrium Health and Duke Health, also for their work toward better mental health.
The recognition comes from ALL IN: Wellbeing First for Healthcare, a national coalition of healthcare organizations.
“Anyone who needs help should never fear seeking it, including doctors. Our revised licensing policies make it clear that we are focused on a doctor’s ability to provide safe care today, not on past treatment that has no bearing on their current practice.”
Dr. Max Rogers, Chair of the Board of Medical Examiners
Alabama Board of Medical Examiners
Until recently, Alabama licensing applications asked physicians about past mental health or substance abuse treatment, even when unrelated to their current ability to provide safe care.
Such questions have discouraged doctors from getting help, contributing to higher rates of burnout, depression and suicide than in the general population.
The Medical Association of the State of Alabama requested the change. Moving forward, forms will ask about conditions or treatments that may currently impair a physician’s ability to practice safely.
“Doctors are human. Like everyone, they deserve the right to pursue mental healthcare without fear of losing their job or license. By reducing stigma and removing barriers to treatment, we are protecting the well-being of physicians, and that means better care for patients. The Board of Medical Examiners has done an outstanding job supporting better healthcare in Alabama.”
Dr. Mark LeQuire, President of the Medical Association
The Board of Medical Examiners also urges healthcare professionals to use the confidential Alabama Professionals Health Program (APHP), which offers case management, workplace monitoring and advocacy for those facing depression, anxiety, burnout or substance use issues.
The reform from Alabama aligns with best practices recommended by the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, named for a physician who died by suicide in 2020. According to the foundation, 50 licensure boards and 635 hospitals nationwide have eliminated intrusive mental health questions from their applications.
“Across the country, health workers are at an increased risk for burnout and mental health conditions. Many health workers feel they cannot speak up about their mental health without being criticized by colleagues or losing their jobs. Today, physicians and nurses die by suicide at two times the rate of the general population. We as a nation must better protect these lives, and I applaud our Wellbeing First Champions for their leadership to support the wellbeing of health workers.”
Corey Feist, CEO of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation
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