Addicted Doctors: Responding to their Needs.

A better understanding of the problems of physicians who misuse alcohol and drugs has helped in the early recognition and treatment of a chemical dependence. Treatment programs, particularly those which recognize physicians' special needs, report high rates of recovery. Many addicted doctors' needs are related to their professional role. Their image often becomes an obstacle to treatment. Relationships with colleagues frequently make it difficult to get help. These special problems usually reflect negative attitudes and moralistic judgments which are unwarranted. The early recognition of a developing dependence is encouraged by informal programs of assistance and an advocacy role for the profession.