University acknowledges special risks, introduces drug program for anesthetists.

Anesthetists are at special risk for becoming addicted to some of the drugs they work with. The problem was highlighted by the recent death of a physician in Comox, BC, and a doctor's brush with death at a hospital near Ottawa. The University of Ottawa has responded with a program, the professional Assistance Program for the Impaired or Disabled Physician, that is in the final stages of approval. Although it will be aimed initially at anesthetists and anesthesia residents in the university's teaching hospitals, there are hopes the program will spread eventually to other medical departments.