[Nurse10406]

Hi everyone... I am not new to addiction, but I am new to recovery. Just 2 weeks ago I decided that I cannot go on living my life addicted to narcotics. I did a lot of research and chose to go on the detox Medication Suboxone for 90 days. The doctor that is treating me has mentioned that he might have to report me to the peer assistance program. Can he really do that???? Isn't that a confidentiality issue, since i sought out therapy on my own and no crimes were ever commited...
I really do not want to be reported!!! I know with the support of my friends, family, and NA I can do this! I don't need to be monitored!!!
Does anyone know if my addiction doctor is legally obligated to report me? Any advice would help. Thanks!

[hppygr8ful]

First of all congrats about getting into treatment it's a big step. Second you need to know that HIPPA does allow for your information to be shared in matters of public safety. Your Physician as a mandated reporter has a duty to report if he feels that you are putting the safety of the public at risk. Have you worked under the influence? If so he would have reason to believe that you would again should you relapse. In such a case his license would also be at stake. Do you plan to take some time off work to cement your recovery when you are done with treatment. If you work with your DR saying that you will not go back to work until he feels you are ready he may be willing to work with you. In most states you can collect up to 1 year of disability under the dx of major depression.

Relapse is very common in this disease especially if you continue to surround yourself with all the stress and temptation of the job. You may consider going to your supervisor and telling him/her that you have a problem and need time off for treatment. Do not admit to any wrong even if you have diverted drugs. That's something they don't have to know right now.

If however you are "found out" you may find yourself fired in diversion or probation and facing a DEA investigation - This happened to a friend of mine who relapsed 4 times and her Dr. never reported her. She had to pay out almost $30K in legal fees and still had her license revoked.

Peace and Namaste

Hppygr8ful