Assessment of Physician Self-reported Knowledge and Use of Maryland’s Extreme Risk Protection Order Law

Key Points Question What do Maryland physicians know about extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs), and what are the barriers and facilitators to ERPO use in clinical settings? Findings In this survey study of 92 physicians, respondents’ knowledge of ERPOs was low, but after reading a brief description, most reported treating patients who would qualify for an ERPO and a willingness to use ERPOs. A clinical coordinator to process ERPO petitions, training, access to legal counsel, and the ability to participate in court hearings remotely would help address barriers to ERPO use. Meaning Maryland physicians’ knowledge of ERPOs, barriers to ERPO use, and strategies for addressing identified barriers may provide important insights to better support ERPO use by physicians.