Seeking TX license reinstatement

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Hi all. I've been a lurker on the boards for some time but am ready to reach out and get some guidance/feedback.

I struggled with substance abuse in 2012 and was reported to the BON. I voluntarily entered TPAPN but relapsed and was released from the program (stopped working as a nurse at that time). Shortly thereafter I was arrested for prescription fraud and that was my rock bottom. My license was subsequently revoked by the board because, although no longer using, I did not show up to my hearing (because SHAME). I've been strictly abstinent from all drugs and alcohol for over five years now. I've done a lot of healing work around the guilt/shame I felt because of my addiction and actions. I think I'm ready to face the board and show accountability. I think I'm ready to reenter the nursing world. I've hired an attorney to help me with the process.

My question is, has anyone petitioned the Tx BON for licensure reinstatement after revocation due to substance abuse/criminal offense? What are my chances? What can I expect? And most importantly, what can I do to help my case? I'm active in my local 12-step program. On the questionnaire the board provides, I am able to honestly answer NO to the questions about substance abuse or mental health treatment in the past 5 years. Therefore, it seems that no documentation will be required related to those topics. However, I'm eager to demonstrate my commitment to sobriety and ability to practice nursing safely again. Any tips?

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Women's Health, LTC.

Root,

I just finished taking the refresher classes for licensure in TX. I was originally licensed in AZ and was revoked. The process here seems to be going smoother than in AZ. I applied for reinstatement there over a YEAR ago, and am told they are so far behind, they are not sure when I will get any notification.

Furthermore, I do not want to go back, but thought I may have to. Then, I contacted Austin CC and asked them about the process here. They referred me to the BON, to get my questions answered. They (BON) were very helpful and did not sugarcoat anything. I will forever have a mark on my license, but, I can apply for licensure here, by endorsement. The first step will be the refresher courses.

Good job on the lawyer. It may make things easier for you!

Good luck and find strength here on this forum.

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My license was suspended for a year and I successfully petitioned for reinstatement. The year I was off I completed everything that was required to be reinstated and kept records of everything.

I am now less than six weeks shy of completing my three year sentence and being SET FREE!!!!!

It hasn't been a walk in the park either. You MUST accept that you will be treated like a second class citizen for the duration. You will be judged harsher than any other medical professional by the BNE. Go into it saying "yes maam, you are right and I am wrong , yes you are superior and I am a loser" to the BNE and you will get along just fine. Do everything you are told and be damn happy to do it and more. Play your case managers game and say "thank you can I have more" whenever you are berated.

...and by all means STAY CLEAN AND SOBER!

Good luck my nurse friend

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