The CPP and mental disabilities
CMAJ 1997;156:1118
In response to: R. Hajela
Re: "Too much money wasted on frivolous applications for CPP disability benefits" (CMAJ 1997;156:65-6 [full text / en bref])
It is gratifying that Dr. Hajela found my article on CPP disability payments so thought provoking. However, I am puzzled by both the eccentric interpretation he has given it and the strangely sanctimonious tone of his letter.
Let me clarify the points he has raised: I drew no distinction between physical and mental disability nor did I accord priority to either, and I made no statement to suggest that significant substance dependence is not a medically legitimate and potentially pensionable disorder.
The latter subject, I suspect, may point to the covert agenda in this exchange. Addiction medicine is a fledgling area of medical specialization that is actively striving for wider recognition. It does itself no service, however, by launching intemperate attacks on imaginary enemies.
Samuel E.D. Shortt, MD, PhD
Adjunct Associate Professor
Department of Family Medicine
Queen's University
Kingston, Ont.
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