Frequently asked questions about SARP

Find answers to common questions about the Board of Registration in Nursing Substance Addiction Recovery Program (SARP).

Table of Contents

How long does it take to get admitted to the program? 

Please review the admission process section on the enrollment webpage. Factors that impact admission include: the completeness of and timely submission of application documents, review of application materials, and communication.  

Can I enroll in SARP in the absence of a complaint against my practice? 

Yes. You can enroll in SARP without a complaint. SARP accepts self-referrals. 

When can I resume nursing practice? 

Nurses who meet all SARP monitoring requirements may return to supervised practice upon approval by the SARP. The process of returning to practice with privileges can be found in Re-Entry into Monitored Practice policy found on the SARP documents webpage.  

Do I need approval prior to accepting a nursing position? 

Yes. You must have any nursing position approved by SARP staff prior to starting in a nursing role. 

How much does it cost to participate in SARP? 

Participants are responsible for all costs associated with participation including but not limited to all toxicology screens and therapy sessions. These fees are discussed during the orientation and prior to your signature of the consent agreement. Please view the SARP Resource Guide PDF | DOC to understand the fee structure. 

May I take prescribed or over the counter medications permitted while in SARP? 

Yes, certain medications are permitted. For a list of medications and other substances not allowed in the SARP program please see: NIH: Drugs of Abuse. In instances where certain medications are needed, SARP staff would request additional medical records from your provider(s). Approval of the medications is made on a case-by-case basis with review by the Substance Addiction Recovery Evaluation Committee (SAREC) and the Board of Registration in Nursing.

Will my nursing license status stay current online? 

Your Massachusetts nursing license(s) will be identified with a non-disciplinary restriction or conditions status throughout your SARP participation. 

What happens to complaints against a nursing license after successful completion of SARP? 

Complaints against a nursing license will be dismissed upon SARP admission and closed upon successful completion of the program. 

What happens to my nursing license after I complete SARP? 

Upon successful completion of SARP, your license will remain in good standing with no restrictions. 

Is there a different path other than participating in SARP? 

The decision to participate in SARP is voluntary. Choosing an alternative path may result in changes to a license status such as suspension of a license for a period of time or other actions as determined by the Board.  

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