It is the intent of the legislature that the podiatric medical board seek ways to identify and support the rehabilitation of podiatric physicians and surgeons where practice or competency may be impaired due to the abuse of or dependency upon drugs or alcohol. The legislature intends that these practitioners be treated so that they can return to or continue to practice podiatric medicine and surgery in a way which safeguards the public. The legislature specifically intends that the podiatric medical board establish an alternate program to the traditional administrative proceedings against podiatric physicians and surgeons.

In lieu of disciplinary action under RCW 18.130.160, if the podiatric medical board determines that the unprofessional conduct may be the result of substance abuse or dependency, the board may refer the licensee to a voluntary substance abuse monitoring program approved by the board.