Drugs, Lies & Docs - by I Michael Kaufmann (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"...a must-read diagnosis of the problem of substance abuse in medicine and an instant classic of addiction literature." -Kirkus Starred Review

"Unflinching lessons from a doctor's addiction, recovery, and efforts to help others." -Booklife by Publishers Weekly, Editor's Pick

Dr. I. Michael Kaufmann knows that stigma and shame kill as surely as a lethal overdose. He also knows firsthand that sharing honest stories about addiction and recovery is the most powerful way to reach anyone struggling with such issues break through to long-term wellness.

In Drugs, Lies & Docs, Dr. Kaufmann takes an empathetic look at addiction and recovery both inside and outside the medical profession. Drawing from his distinguished career, he explores addiction and recovery in the twenty-first century while, at the same time, his deeply personal narrative shines a spotlight on health professionals' often hidden struggles.

Authentic, compassionate, raw, and real, Drugs, Lies & Docs addresses addiction with dignity. It offers hope. With a commitment to education and a heartfelt call to action, Dr. Kaufmann's memoir champions recovery and the enduring humanity required to sustain it in the high-stakes world of medical practice.

Review Quotes

More than a tale of a doctor's recovery from severe substance use disorder, this is a universal story of confronting personal vulnerabilities with courage and honesty. It is also a poignant love story of Michael and Judy, partners through thick and thin. A must-read.

-Michael F. Myers, MD, Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, and author of Becoming a Doctors' Doctor: A Memoir

An extraordinary biography that chronicles a physician's journey from addiction and despair to recovery and transformation. Both healthcare professionals and individuals facing life's challenges will find inspiration and hope in this remarkable memoir.

-Mel Borins, MD, Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, and author of A Doctor's Guide to Alternative Medicine

Discover the Power of Recovery: Dr. Michael Kaufmann's memoir exposes the hidden struggles of addiction within the medical profession and provides a raw, insightful look into the lives of those who heal others but must also heal themselves. Having both survived addiction and devoted his career to helping others in similar situations, Dr. Kaufmann's story is both educational and inspiring.

-Dr. Nicholas Pimlott, Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, and Editor of Canadian Family Physician

As a leader in physician wellness and addiction, Dr. Michael Kaufmann shares his expertise and personal experiences to challenge the stigma, isolation, fear, and shame surrounding addiction in medicine. This story of strength and hope aims to save lives through its compelling narrative and educational impact.

-Caroline Gérin-Lajoie, EVP Physician Wellness and Medical Culture, Canadian Medical Association