Navigating Corporate Risks: The Impact of Substance Use on CEO and Board Decision-Making

by Lauro Amezcua-Patino, MD, FAPA.

The legalization of recreational marijuana in Arizona and some USA States, has created a complex and conflicting regulatory landscape. On one hand, medical professionals are bound by strict regulations under the Arizona Medical Act, prohibiting them from evaluating patients or practicing medicine while under the influence of marijuana. This highlights the need for patient safety and accurate clinical judgment in the medical field. However, on the other hand, corporate boards and leaders of publicly traded companies face no such restrictions when making decisions that can have significant financial and personal impact. This stark contrast raises questions about accountability and responsibility when it comes to substance use in decision-making processes.

The current societal and corporate perspectives on the use of substances like marijuana and alcohol seem to be shifting, but not without causing some internal turmoil. As marijuana becomes increasingly accepted and even legalized for recreational purposes, it’s hard not to think about the historical context of alcohol use in corporate settings. The conflicting attitudes towards these substances pose a complex challenge for businesses today, as they navigate cultural norms, ethical…