The author examines findings from a pilot study of physician mortality. Data was obtained from interviews of surviving family members of physicians in 5 U.S. states who died during 1980-1981. A profile of the impaired physician is presented. Depression, worry about finances, involvement in litigation, lack of satisfaction with occupation, recent loss, indirect self destructive behavior, & withdrawal. A nation-wide study based on the results of this pilot project is ongoing. (1983) (NBB)