License denied because of mental health issues

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

I'm sorry to hear about your challenges, and I understand how complex these situations can be.

Your eligibility for RN licensure will be decided based on the specifics of your situation. For example, was your license revoked or suspended? Was there a complaint to the Board of Nursing? 

Here are some things to consider regarding your eligibility to return to school and eventually earn your RN license in Washington State:

Disqualifications and Barriers to Licensure

Washington State's Department of Health (DOH) handles nursing licenses, including revocations and reinstatements. There are several reasons someone might be blocked from applying for or renewing a nursing license. Mental health issues, in and of themselves, are not a disqualifying factor, unless they were tied to behavior that impacts public safety or your ability to practice nursing.

Since you've mentioned that you were disqualified from renewing or applying for a license, it's important to understand the exact reason for this decision. The fact that you qualified for SSDI for mental health reasons may not necessarily prevent you from pursuing nursing again, but it could depend on the specific language or conditions placed on your previous license or any action taken by the state board.

The Washington State Nurse Practice Act outlines that the state board may deny or revoke a nursing license for mental illness if it substantially impairs your ability to practice safely, but it's not an automatic barrier if you've been stable and are no longer impaired.

 Returning to School for RN

Generally, disqualifications related to licensure don't prevent someone from attending school. You can go back to school to pursue an RN program (if you're eligible for enrollment), but you may need to disclose your history.

However, being accepted by a school does not guarantee eligibility for licensure as an RN. This is why it's essential to contact the BON before you invest a lot of time in school.

If you've had a history of mental health conditions or substance use issues, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) may require you to submit documentation of your current mental health status, including any treatment plans or evidence that you're able to practice safely.

Next Steps

• Contact the Washington State Department of Health. The best first step is to reach out to the Washington State Department of Health, particularly the Nursing Commission. They can provide clarification on your specific situation and inform you whether you're permanently blocked or if there is a pathway for reinstating your eligibility to practice as a nurse. You may be able to appeal the decision or demonstrate that you are stable and able to practice safely.
• Consider legal counsel. Speaking with a professional licensing attorney specializing in nursing licensure issues in Washington State may be worthwhile. They can help you navigate the process and assess whether there are any legal avenues to appeal or challenge your disqualification.

If your mental health issues are no longer impairing your ability to work, you may need to provide medical documentation from your doctor or therapist demonstrating your stability. If you're stable and able to work, the nursing board may reconsider your eligibility for licensure.

Relevant Resources

Washington State Nursing Commission 

Washington State Board of Nursing

Washington State Nurse Practice Act 

 

Conclusion

While mental health can sometimes complicate the process of licensure, it is not an automatic lifetime barrier to pursuing an RN career in Washington State. If your mental health issues are under control, you may still be able to return to school and pursue licensure. Still, you will need to verify your specific situation with the Washington State Department of Health.

Very best wishes,

Nurse Beth