Lost License in 1 state what happens in another?????

Nurses Recovery

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I am thinking of giving up my license in one state due to diversion accusations. I really cannot afford time off for VDAP/treatment. Got another job in a neighboring state and its a compact state license. What will happen to that license?

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They will find out and you'll have big problems. All of the states handle things slightly differently so best to get a lawyer specializing in RN licenses.

I have known people who did this and ended up with a suspended license in the state they moved to. Once you have been accused of diversion there is no such thing as running away to another state as if it never happened. It doesn't work that way. You're best bet I think is to see this charge to the end in the original state and seeing if they would allow the new state to take over with the monitoring, allowing you to move (if you want to move for reasons other than avoiding the charges). I don't know if your original state would allow such a thing but I have heard of it. They are all a little different in what they allow so I would get a lawyer to help you figure this out.

Most states have the monitoring as an alternative to discipline, meaning nothing public shows up on your license so that is the benefit to doing it. If you end up with a suspended license (or probation... any public discipline) in any state any future employer and any future BON from any state (compact or not) will see that because there is a national website called nursys.com and you can see the status (including court paperwork) of any license the nurse might have in any state. Employers know about it and it is a part of background checks. Public discipline never is erased from your record and is accessible online to anyone and never goes away. So think twice about avoiding the monitoring program. Good luck!

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^ I concur. If you run, they will catch you. And it will be worse. Get an attorney ASAP... This will not go away.

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Are you still licensed to work in your original state without any pending charges or allegations? If the answer is yes and you know you didn't violate any law, you can reciprocate. If you know you are guilty, DO NOT try to sneak in to another state because nothing is official against you at this moment. If you have the money for frequent urines (1-3 times a week during the first several months) and want to keep your license, you need the VRP. The VRP is not easy but they WILL work with you only if you're always HONEST with them. Even if you "relapse" once while in the VRP, they may still allow you to continue. Relapse is common and they know that. Do NOT waste money on a lawyer if you know you're guilty. Only hire one if you are SURE you didn't divert anything and you want to keep your license. Bottom and MOST IMPORTANTLY, BE HONEST. DON'T try to sneak around things. IF you're stealing drugs and using them, you NEED HELP regardless about your license. Again, always be honest. That's what they want in recovery. Good luck. Know you're not alone. Estimates show about 1 in 7 nurses had or have the disease of addiction.

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I always suggest a lawyer... they do work with people who admit to being guilty. They can help to make sure you are doing everything right. However all of these states work differently. In my state we have a few really affordable ones but I have heard of very expensive ones in other states. Also, in my state you always have a hearing with the BON even if you sign up for the voluntary program. And signing up doesn't mean you automatically get alternative to discipline. That is why I always recommend a lawyer (for those in my state). Perhaps if you don't need to have a hearing in your state you may not need a lawyer. I don't know the specifics of your state.

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How can I find out the specifics in my state?

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Here's a link to a lawyer in alabama (I think that's where you are) who gives a free consult.

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I am not recommending this lawyer as I have no experience with your state but this is an example of where to get more information.

I would be honest with my lawyer and tell him the truth about whatever happened, so they can best advise you. They've heard it all before.

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