(1) As used in this section, unless the context clearly requires otherwise: "Physician" means a person authorized by law to practice medicine in this state.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of KRS 64.640, the Personnel Cabinet may, upon the recommendation of the hiring authority and with the approval of the Governor, establish rates of compensation and maintenance within the constitutional limit for each position requiring the services of a qualified physician in any department, agency, or other unit of state government. Such rates shall be based upon studies of the duties and responsibilities of the positions and upon a comparison with rates being paid for similar or comparable services elsewhere.