[Physicians with substance abuse problems]

This article provides information about the extent and characteristic features of physicians' abuse of alcohol and drugs and the Norwegian Board of Health's reaction in such cases.

All cases of physicians abusing alcohol or drugs in 1998, 1999 and 2000, a total of 36, were analysed according to predetermined parameters.

Most of the physicians were men around fifty working in primary health care and with more than ten years' experience after authorization. Habit-forming drugs were used more often than alcohol. The usual type of problem was self-medication and self-prescription. 83% admitted that they had a problem when confronted with it. Employers gave no sanctions in 40% of the cases and less than 5% of the physicians were dismissed. The Norwegian Board of Health withdrew authorization in 41% of the cases.

The professional burdens on physicians combined with personal risk factors may be a cause of addiction. In most cases employers do not address the problem. The Norwegian Board of Health uses withdrawal of authorization more often than milder reactions. The chances of getting the authorization back are small.