Impaired physicians: the Kentucky experience.

Since 1976 the Committee on Impaired Physicians of the Kentucky Medical Association has become involved with 134 physicians. Most were referred because of possible substance abuse. These physicians represent a wide range of ages and specialties. The Committee typically follows approximately 35 physicians at any given time. Many recover from their problem and are able to return to practice. However, the Committee is aware of only a minority of the impaired physicians that might exist in Kentucky. To be more effective and to reach more impaired physicians, the Committee will need to expand its mission and obtain more resources.