TPAPN in TX for licensure from compact state

U.S.A. Texas

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I am truly hoping that somebody can help guide me in the right direction or give me some advice.

I moved from a compact state, have been a RN for 15 years and have a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder. When I applied for my TX license, I submitted the necessary documentation from my psychiatrists, and my own letter as per BNE requirements, stating that I was compliant, stable, aware of warning signs, no hospitalizations or crisis situations, able to live a normal life and fulfill my duties as a nurse.

I guess this wasn't enough for them for my Initial Review of application was denied (after 1.5 months) and is to be sent to Enforcement and there is a note attached stating will need TPAPN!! I was totally shocked and appalled by this as there is no basis!! Then, the icing on the cake, they told me that this review process could take up to 3 months!! They also told me that although it's being sent to Enforcement tomorrow (Thu) that it would be 2 weeks before it would even be logged in and I would be able to talk to somebody there!

Has anybody else had this type of issue with the TX BNE? If so, what did you do?

Does anybody know if there is an appeal process, should I get an attorney, etc? Incidentally, I am licensed in 2 states already!!

I would appreciate ANY help as I have been living off of savings (moved down here early on erroneous advice given by BNE representatives) and the job that was waiting for me will probably now be gone.

THANKS!!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Yikes - so sorry you're going through this - a very good reason to get licensed prior to relocating.

I don't have any words of wisdom for you. I don't believe that an attorney would be any help, since you don't need to defend yourself from any accusations from the BON; they are just responding to information you provided. More than 10 years ago, a friend of mine made the mistake of admitting (on her license renewal) to a problem with post-partum depression that had been treated and resolved before her maternity leave was up. She was also forced into TPAPN. I had hoped that the BON would have evolved somewhat but it doesn't look like it.

Unfortunately, our BON seems to take a dim view of any type of behavioral diagnosis or problem. It's no wonder that everyone says to avoid disclosure on your license renewal. Am I missing something here? Has there been any sort of widespread issue reported with nurses who are being treated for psych pblms?? By taking this sort of punitive action, the BON is actively discouraging nurses from seeking help when they need it. Sheesh.

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I really appreciate your response. My file goes to Enforcement today. I was told by a supervisor (the person who sends the files, posts licenses online) to wait 2 weeks & call her & she would transfer me to Enforcement. Again, jumping through hoops!

Do you think it would do any good to call Enforcement myself on Monday? If you know of anybody that you could talk to that have any insight or additional info I'd be very appreciative!

Thanks again for your response!!

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