Enter diversion or deny accusation?

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I'm posting this because when I got a letter from brn saying my previous employer accused me of diverting narcotics and I had the choice of entering diversion program or get a lawyer and have the BRN launch an investigation on me I did not know what to do... So my best thought was investigating what nurses said about the program online and consulting with a lawyer...WRONG! If you are a nurse with a substance abuse problem including diversion it is in your best interest to enter diversion. I read that you couldn't work for at least a year and my lawyer told me that by entering diversion I'm red flagging myself so that no one would ever hire me and I would pretty much be a waitress with a nursing license. Well I'm single and support myself so I figured only option is to fight it? Again... Wrong. First of all most nurses I know we're allowed to work after 6 months. Most entered 28 day inpatient or intensive outpatient. Then assigned a case manager who ensures they meet all of their very strict requirements. But guess what I didn't know? Addiction qualifies you for disability pay for up to one year! Making almost the same amount of money u made when u were working and they are working as nurses in doctor offices, med spas, triage, case management! The best thing I advise is DO NOT Google diversion program because it only talks about the negatives and exaggerates them and DO NOT contact lawyer for advice at least not as the first person! I know you are scared and denying accusations and getting a lawyer sounds like your best chance but if have a problem with addiction it's not just going to go away, you can't run from it by moving to a new city or switching jobs and I know you think you are at your bottom right now but it will get so much worse if you don't get professional help on your own or enter diversion program! My best advice is to go on your BRN website and they should have a whole diversion section or something similar in every state... They have weekly support groups for nurses in diversion and probation. The support group leaders are not employed by the BRN but do report to them and if you seek their help they will not report you but give you the guidance you need! Most of them are nurses who completed the diversion program and have been in recovery for many years. I advise you go anonymously to be safe. No need to mention your name or where you work. Even say hey my friend is in this situation and I want to help her... A BRN investigation costs up to $20000 I've heard. Plus lawyer fees, plus you will not get the help you need so please contact the BRN diversion support group leader in your area!!!!

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Each individual experience is different, my lawyer was incredibly helpful.

He coached me on how to divulge enough information without sinking myself.

I do agree with seeking out those who have had similar experience first and foremost- those who have experienced addiction first hand.

i came to this sight but avoided nurses who had experience with board orders in my area like the plague, but found others in recovery who helped me immensely. A year and a half later I am now starting to contact other nurses, I was far to scared and overwhelmed in the beginning to do this.

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That's a very good point... When asked if I was an addict by my lawyer I said no. I was honest about what I had done but did not yet understand the power of addiction. I thought because I could stop on my own and didn't need detox I was not an addict and could just not use again with enough determination and willpower. Because I thought... I'm a nurse I can't be a drug addict. I thought I was one of very few nurses in the country who was in this type of situation and just had too much shame and guilt to admit it. It felt so good to know I wasn't alone and meeting other nurses in recovery and finding this site. Community, support, and honesty are a necessary part of recovery. Thanks so much for your response!

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I agree that if you have an addiction and or diverted it is best to follow through with the diversion program. The disability pay depends on each state. When I was in CA, they have state disability. ( Its paid by state income tax, based on your income over the past 2-3 years) it was great being able to have income. I was in CA diversion program when etg testing started and any level was considered positive. The levels have been increased since 2006.

I moved to Florida, and entered into their program IPN. They don't have state disability, but most nurses are eligible to work as soon as rehab is complete.

I agree that unless you have been falsely accused its best just to get help and complete the states program available.

Gabby

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