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Many industries and companies insist on drug testing for employees, but most of the time physicians are exempt from these requirements. There are a growing number of people who are advocating for mandatory drug testing for all medical and healthcare professionals, and this includes physicians. The rate of substance abuse in the medical community is higher than it is in the general population, in part due to a high stress level and also the easier access to drugs which are commonly abused. Physicians are often reluctant to admit that they have a problem with substance abuse out of fear that they could lose their license, alienate patients, and ruin their careers. Instead of seeking help the medical professional just gets deeper and deeper into the substance abuse and eventually they will slip up and get caught.

Drug testing physicians is an idea that needs to be examined, but in order to be effective any program should offer treatment for a first offense and complete confidentiality rather than disciplinary action against the healthcare provider. If this type of program was instituted then more physicians may be willing to admit that they have a drug or alcohol abuse problem and seek out the treatment that is needed. Valiant Recovery offers an intensive substance abuse treatment program for medical professionals that is effective, confidential, and flexible enough to ensure that your practice does not go under while you are in the treatment program. If you are a doctor who needs help contact us today and see what we can do for you.