[A troublesome privilege--physicians' loss of the right to prescribe]

This study includes 32 doctors (31 men) who in 1990 had lost or given up the right to prescribe habit-forming drugs. 11 were hospital doctors, while 21 were either in private practice or held other posts. The records of the Norwegian Board of Health were reviewed. 18 doctors agreed to be interviewed, while 14 declined or did not reply to our enquiry. The interviews indicate that many of the doctors were sick at the time. The loss of the right to prescribe habit-forming drugs came as one of several blows at a time of crisis. It was felt as a severe reaction, leading to loss of esteem, but not as a social or professional disaster. The majority of the doctors had managed to return to normal medical practice, some after specializing. Restricting the right to prescribe can be an effective way of stopping unwanted medical practice. Early identification and treatment of doctors who misuse or have problems with prescribing drugs is important. This should be a joint responsibility for the medical profession and the local health authorities.