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Referrals or inquiries may be made to any of the following persons:
Chairman
Psychiatry
410-328-3716
Dr. Christopher Welsh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. He is board certified in general and addiction psychiatry.
Committee Members
Professor
Emergency Medicine
Dr. Wilkerson is an emergency physician and Professor of Emergency Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, where he serves as Director of Clinical Research. He has been deeply involved in medical education throughout his career, including teaching and mentoring medical students, residents, fellows, and junior faculty. His clinical and research work includes improving the care of patients with substance use disorders, particularly through initiatives involving opioid overdose prevention, naloxone access, harm reduction, emerging drug adulterants, and evidence-based treatment of opioid withdrawal and opioid use disorder.
Dr. Wilkerson says, “I joined the PAC because clinicians devote their professional lives to caring for others, while they may find it difficult to seek help for themselves. I believe our colleagues deserve a confidential, compassionate, and nonjudgmental source of support during challenging times. This work matters because helping my colleagues to protect their health and well-being also strengthens their ability to provide excellent care to patients.”
Assistant Professor of Surgery, Program in Trauma
University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Medicine
Dr. James E. Wiseman is an Assistant Professor of Surgery in the Program in Trauma at the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Medicine. He is a board-certified trauma surgeon and surgical intensivist with clinical interests in the management of severe traumatic injury, traumatic brain injury, and critical care.
In addition to his civilian practice, Dr. Wiseman serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force reserve, where he is a Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) physician and serves as commander of the 459 Aeromedical Staging Squadron CCAT Flight, based out of Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. His academic work focuses on improving outcomes after traumatic brain injury and developing evidence-based approaches to the care of critically injured patients. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and remains actively involved in surgical education, clinical research, and physician leadership.
Dr. Wiseman says, “Advocating for physicians ultimately means advocating for our patients. Throughout my career as a trauma surgeon, military physician, educator, and researcher I have seen how decisions made far from the bedside can profoundly affect the care we are able to provide. I joined the Physician Assistance Committee because physicians need a strong, informed champion for often overlooked issues that deeply impact those who have committed to a life in academic medicine. By engaging with administration and distressed physicians directly, we can help improve the conditions that ultimately determine access to high-quality care, reduce unnecessary administrative burdens, and ensure that physicians can continue to focus on what matters most: caring for patients. I believe physician advocacy is a professional responsibility and an essential extension of our commitment to the communities we serve.”
Advisory Members
Behavioral Health Director
EAP Director
410-328-8549
Mr. White is a licensed, professional counselor. He is Director of the EAP, certified in addiction treatment and holds a faculty appointment with University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry. Rob is also the clinical director for the MSDA Dentist Well-Being Committee.
EAP Manager
667-214-1560
Malika brings a passion for workplace wellness, mental health advocacy, and employee support. She has 20 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) offering expertise in strategies to improve mood, prevent burnout, address substance abuse issues and manage workplace dynamics. Malika oversees the development and implementation of confidential counseling services, crisis intervention, and wellness programs that support employees in navigating personal and professional challenges. She collaborates with HR, leadership, and external providers to ensure a holistic approach to employee well-being.