One of the BRN Intervention and Enforcement mandates is that the nurse has exams done within specific time frames that will ensure good health and safety prior to entrusting them with a nursing license. The Doctor performing the exam must have three years of experience providing evaluations of health professionals with substance abuse disorders. The Board can require exams to be performed by Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Psychiatrists, and Addictionologists. Insurance often does not cover the cost and the nurse is responsible for the exam fee and any lab tests involved in the process. Fees for evaluations can range from $500 to $2000, not including labs. Here is a list of Health Professionals who, in the past, have been approved by the Board, have consented to do the exams, or got their name on the list by word of mouth. Do not assume the Board will approve a Physician and do not have the exam done prior to approval by the BRN Nurse Consultant as this may result in repeated exams. We are in need of resources throughout the state of California who will provide these services to nurses.
This site does not promote any particular Physician or Service. This site is not responsible for the outcomes of physical or psychological examinations. What this site does promote is the support of nurses in recovery and the provision of options to choose from along the journey. Some will work better than others, some won’t fit the need. Each pilgrimage of recovery will be as unique as the individual walking it. This site takes no responsibility for the path chosen but strongly encourages open hearts, open minds, and strong fortitude to walk hand in hand with fellow nurses.
San Diego, CA. Photo from: af.wikipedia.org