Nurses who request admission will be sent a new participant packet to review prior to their admission. This packet includes all the pertinent information about the requirements for participation, including a copy of the initial contract that will be signed by all participants. They will be scheduled to meet with the Diversion Program Case Manager for an admission interview.
The initial contract signed by all participants is a five-year contract, in which the nurse agrees to be monitored by the Diversion Program during that five-year time frame. The requirements of the contract include:
- Admission of a problem with chemical dependency.
- Treatment for chemical dependency. A minimum of intensive out patient treatment is required.
- After initial treatment, participation in an aftercare group for a period of one year.
- Complete abstinence from all mind altering drugs, including alcohol.
- Regular, random drug and alcohol screens according to the protocol for the Diversion Program.
- Regular, verified attendance at support group meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous and monthly submission of attendance sheets.
- Submission of monthly, written self-assessment letters addressing recovery issues.
- Submission of regular reports from work place supervisor regarding work performance.
- Submission of regular reports from the treatment and aftercare counselors regarding participation and cooperation with treatment.
- Mandatory, regularly scheduled face-to-face evaluations with representatives of the Diversion Program and submission of signed contract amendments.
Practice stipulations regarding return to work issues usually include:
- no access to narcotics or keys for a minimum of one year.
- no agency, traveling nurse or home health work for a minimum of one year.
- no night shift work for a minimum of one year.
- no overtime for a minimum of one year.