As used in this subchapter the following words and terms have the following meanings, unless the context indicates otherwise:
"Alternative Resolution Program" or "ARP" means a program established pursuant to this subchapter for those subject to Board jurisdiction who are suffering from chemical dependencies and other impairments which shall permit such licensees to disclose their status to an entity which would allow for confidential oversight.
"Board" means the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners.
"Chemical dependency" means a condition involving the continued misuse of chemical substances.
"Chemical substances" is to be construed to include alcohol, drugs or medications, including those taken pursuant to a valid prescription for legitimate medical purposes and in accordance with the prescriber's direction, as well as those used illegally.
"Confidential" means that a participating licensee's identity (as well as any information from which a licensee's identity could be deduced) shall be maintained in a limited access file maintained by the Impairment Review Committee ("IRC"), with disclosure provided only to those persons whom the IRC determines have a need to know, in order to perform their role in the review process.
"Impairment" means an inability to function at an acceptable level of competency, or an incapacity to continue to practice with the requisite skill, safety and judgment, as a result of alcohol and/or chemical dependency, a psychiatric and/or emotional disorder, senility or a disabling physical disorder.
"Impairment Review Committee" or "IRC" means the subcommittee of the Board created pursuant to this subchapter.
"Licensee" means a physician (including a resident or intern), podiatrist, bioanalytical laboratory director, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant or other professional subject to regulation by the Board.
"Panel" means the Medical Practitioner Review Panel.
"Professional assistance program" or "PAP" means a publicly or privately organized entity offering services to facilitate the rehabilitation of licensees suffering from chemical dependencies or other impairments. A program may limit its services to specific categories of licensees.
N.J. Admin. Code § 13:35-11.1