Experiences with Maryland alternative-to-discipline program?

dirtyhippiegirl, BSN, RN · Oct 22, 2015

Are you self-reporting because you have fears that you are about to be reported by someone else? Otherwise, do not self-report!

newgradmistake · Oct 22, 2015

Hi, thanks for the reply. I failed a pre-employment drug test for my first job as a new grad. I took a single 5mg valium from a family member during a really difficult moment 3 days before the test. I had never taken anything before and was not thinking straight so I didn't really register the consequences. I am waiting to hear if they will be reporting me to the BON but am trying to prepare myself for if they do. I have a clean background and have never been in trouble before so I feel that with a good lawyer I wouldn't get more than probation on my license, but being a new grad with no experience and then with probation on top of it, I'm worried it would be impossible to find a job to work off the probation?! I am considering self reporting because I believe I may qualify for the alternative-to-discipline for possible PTSD/anxiety. Any thoughts?

Big Blondie, ASN, BSN, MSN, APRN · Oct 23, 2015

Be very careful to report anythin. Get an atty. if you are suffering mental illness that could effect your ability to practice then that is one thing. If you freaked out about something and when vulnerable took a valium and it is an isolated event. Meaning not a habit. Not ongoing. I am not mentally ill, I would try not to be monitored at whatever cost. Going to board eval and gutting yourself will land you in program. I needed program to get me off that train. If I didnt need it, they wouldve had a fight on their hands. At best. You used poor judgement, and it was illegal. But its not the end of the world. Keep looking for a job. Good luck. And yes they will likely report you.

SookieBSN · Oct 23, 2015

I agree with Ms. Blondie above: You will most likely get reported. It may take month, it may take a year, but the board will find you. The problem is the Board has no way of knowing if this is one isolated incident or a symptom of a much bigger problem. If you are being monitored in MD, you will need permission to practice for clinicals if that is required in your PhD program. The program in MD is one of the better ones, but it is five years long and there are very few exceptions to that term. Finding a job in MD with a contract is difficult but not impossible, even for a new grad. Good luck.

1sttime · Oct 23, 2015

Self reporting is a road to a one size fits all recovery program- I would not recommend it- but as a professional you have got to tighten up your standards about substances- you should have a hard line about taking other peoples drugs...

catsmeow1972, BSN, RN · Nov 2, 2015

I self reported regarding a mental health issue. Doing quite nicely now, thanks, however self reporting sounded like a good idea at the time. I thought I was doing the right thing. I have never been more wrong in my life. I was tossed head first into the circus of ethically questionable and overpriced "evaluations". I got shunted into a drug/alcohol rehab nightmare that was woefully inappropriate and came out the other side with a 5 year contract (we're a year into it as of this writing) that is the same cookie cutter approach as a person with addiction issues. Funny in a sad way that I have never been a drinker, smoker or user of any sort, except for the suicide attempt that put me here. I was in the depressive phase of a bipolar cycle and my meds were off. Whatever the reason that got me here, I realize there are consequences, but this is asinine. I welcome the psych visits and the counseling requirements, but AA and drug tests, etc. Sorry, nothing but a money suck. Oh and my career is complely trashed and I will forever have the stigma of having to discuss my mental health with any prospective job interview. Yes I am bitter, but I just suggest you consider this in determining you choice to self report.

Maria425 · Dec 21, 2015

Hey girl. I am in the MD bon program. The ladies you meet with are very kind and considerate. I think they will take the circumstances into consideration. If you self report they will try to meet with you ASAP and there is a chance you might not have a narc restriction depending on your past. I would just self report and meet with them. In the meantime apply for and accept another job of offered and then when you enter into your contract let your employer know with your head held high and with your dignity. My employer worked with me and thanked me for letting them know. If they choose to fire you because you're in recovery that shows you they do not value employees the way that they should. Good luck girl!!