(1) The board is authorized, on its own motion, or pursuant to the complaint of a person having reason to believe a judge is disabled, to investigate and take appropriate action, including recommendation of removal from office, in any case wherein an active judge is suffering from any disability, physical or mental, that is or is likely to become permanent and that would substantially interfere with the prompt, orderly, and efficient performance of the judge's duties.
(2) All complaints made under this section are confidential and privileged.
(3) If the board recommends removal from office under this section, the aggrieved judge may appeal to the supreme court as provided in § 17-5-309.