Medical Review Officer Online Course with Live Discussion (Includes Digital Syllabus)-Substance Abuse Professionals/Employee Assistance Programs

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This video summarizes the Department of Transportation's (DOT) Drug and Alcohol Testing Rules return to duty process, focusing on the role of the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). The SAP is responsible for evaluating employees who have violated DOT drug and alcohol testing rules and making recommendations for their education, treatment, and rehabilitation. They also develop a plan for follow-up testing and aftercare as needed. The qualification standards for SAPs include licensure or certification in relevant fields such as medicine, social work, psychology, counseling, or marriage and family therapy, as well as knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating substance abuse disorders. SAPs must complete specific qualification training, including courses on DOT testing requirements, prohibitions in the assessment and referral process, and record-keeping requirements. They are also required to pass a certification examination. SAPs must complete 12 continuing education units every three years to maintain their qualification. The SAP's evaluation and assessment process involves face-to-face clinical assessments, referrals for appropriate treatment or education, and follow-up evaluations to determine compliance and continued recommendations. The SAP's evaluations and reports must be provided in writing directly to the employer, and a follow-up testing plan must be included for compliant employees. The video also touches on employee assistance programs (EAP) and their relationship with the SAP process. EAPs provide education, training, consultation, and referral services for employees with personal or work-related issues, including substance abuse. While EAPs can refer employees to SAPs, they cannot make return-to-duty decisions without SAP evaluation, and the employer is responsible for determining employees' eligibility for returning to safety-sensitive duty. The video emphasizes that employers are not obligated to provide rehabilitation or maintain SAP evaluation records, and termination of employment is a potential consequence for employees who violate DOT regulations.

Keywords

DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing

Substance Abuse Professional

SAP qualification standards

DOT testing requirements

follow-up evaluations

employee assistance programs

return-to-duty decisions

termination of employment