BBC: Doctors and dentists who have an addiction or other health problems often leave it late to seek help because they fear being recognised or worry about putting their career in jeopardy.
But the launch of a specialist service on Monday may help push them to seek the treatment they need.
The government-funded project expects to see 500 cases a year.
It's already been getting inquiries before the formal launch.
The idea of specialised help was proposed by the Chief Medical Officer, Sir Liam Donaldson, some years ago.
But it gained momentum after inquiries into the serial killer GP, Harold Shipman, and other doctors who've mistreated patients.
GP-run
The service - named the Practitioner Health Programme - is based in a normal GP practice, near a busy transport hub in central London.
However, doctors and dentists who turn up here won't have to linger in the waiting area as confidentiality is a key priority.
The consulting room is more like a psychiatrist's study, with comfortable chairs and a coffee table.
There is no computer sitting between the doctor and patient, and no examination couch.
Addiction to drink or drugs is expected to be a common concern.
By the time health professionals acknowledge that they need help, they're likely to be highly distressed - so up to two hours are set aside for an initial assessment. >>> By Jane Dreaper, BBC News health correspondent | November 18, 2008
BBC: Intoxication 'Rife among Doctors'
The British Medical Association has called for action over alcohol and drug abuse among medics after a BBC survey showed the problem was widespread.
BBC One's Real Story found over the last 10 years 750 hospital staff in England had been disciplined over alcohol and drug-related incidents.
The BMA estimates one in 15 medics have a problem with drugs or alcohol at some point in their life-time.
Ethics Committee chairman Michael Wilks said the profession was in denial. >>> | June 13, 2008
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