California Diversion Fit for Work Evaluation

Published

Specializes in ER.

Hi all,

I have been in the California BON Diversion program for 7 months.  I am in the program for Mental Health but because I also drank prior to my mental breakdown, I am dual diagnosis.  All in all, I am doing great.  I am in compliance so far.  After much back and forth, I got an initial go ahead to take Vyvanse for ADHD with my case manager. As a rule, these programs are abstinence programs, because I am not at risk for drug use, and documentation from my psychiatrist I am waiting for my meeting to go back to work.  Maximus does not have a protocol in place for a nurse who takes a controlled medication.  In order to go back to work, I must get a neuropsychiatry evaluation for fit for duty/return to work (at my cost).  It seems this evaluation is similar to a HIMS aviation evaluation.  Maximus only had one name and his practice is full so I am searching for a neuropsychiatrist, who is also addiction certified.  If anyone has any referrals, I would greatly appreciate it.  If anyone has any experience with this, I'd love to hear how it went with the board.  Thank you!

-1
Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi @C Rizzle , I don't have an answer for your question, but I hope you found an answer too your question since it's been a while :).

 I'm an RN here in CA & I'm seeking to enroll in the CA Nurse Intervention program for mental health purposes as well.  
Would I be able to private message you? I am highly considering joining the program,  but it's a big decision. Hoping to learn more. Would I be able to private message you? 

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER.
bayarea123 said:

Hi @C Rizzle , I don't have an answer for your question, but I hope you found an answer too your question since it's been a while :).

 I'm an RN here in CA & I'm seeking to enroll in the CA Nurse Intervention program for mental health purposes as well.  
Would I be able to private message you? I am highly considering joining the program,  but it's a big decision. Hoping to learn more. Would I be able to private message you? 

Yes, message me anytime. CA is turning into a *** show ever since BRN staff member [MODERATOR EDIT OF NAME, PER TOS] took over the diversion program. 

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You are so lucky you get to take your ADHD meds. It was banned when I was in the program. I had to go on non stims and I struggled for 3.5 years. I have severe ADHD. It was a struggle. I wish I had a referral for you. Best of luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Sanfranjflo said:

You are so lucky you get to take your ADHD meds. It was banned when I was in the program. I had to go on non stims and I struggled for 3.5 years. I have severe ADHD. It was a struggle. I wish I had a referral for you. Best of luck!

You can take it after? They don't stalk you?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I guess not! LOL.

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×

Do not enter the diversion program in California. I promise you, AVOID AT ALL COSTS. People who have been in the program for 4 plus years are stuck indefinitely because of changes being made. If you can avoid it, please, please do. Do your research and you will see what I'm talking about. Get your own help. Do not enter the California intervention program. 

Up Vote Up Vote ×
bayarea123 said:

Hi @C Rizzle , I don't have an answer for your question, but I hope you found an answer too your question since it's been a while :).

 I'm an RN here in CA & I'm seeking to enroll in the CA Nurse Intervention program for mental health purposes as well.  
Would I be able to private message you? I am highly considering joining the program,  but it's a big decision. Hoping to learn more. Would I be able to private message you? 

I'd only do it if you absolutely have to do it to save a career.  It's not the ideal way to treat mental health.  If it's not mandatory get help on your own 

Up Vote Up Vote ×

@Healer555 

 I agree that it's not the ideal option for mental health, but I have a formal complaint made by my employer that fired me to the BON last month. It seems after consulting with a few lawyers that it will save my career by not being put on probation and having the record of discipline on my license. 

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
bayarea123 said:

@Healer555 

 I agree that it's not the ideal option for mental health, but I have a formal complaint made by my employer that fired me to the BON last month. It seems after consulting with a few lawyers that it will save my career by not being put on probation and having the record of discipline on my license. 

Make sure you are doing something outside of the BON to take care of your mental health. 

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Healer555 said:

Make sure you are doing something outside of the BON to take care of your mental health. 

Bingo! Totally agree.

2
Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you all for your advice, and I agree.  Taking on hobbies, fitness and even cooking right now during my unemployment era has done wonders (things I didn't really do before).

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion