How will the use of marijuana affect your California medical professional license? What should a nurse, physician, technician or other medical professional know about the casual use of marijuana?
While marijuana has been legalized for recreational use in the State of California this isn’t a license for off hours marijuana smoking or consumption. It is still legal for all California employers to ban the use of marijuana and other drugs as a term of employment. It is also legal for a California employer to fire any employee who fails a drug test when testing is required as a basis of employment.
Doctors, nurses, technicians and medical professionals must be aware of the presence of marijuana in their system long after use. Generally speaking, infrequent recreational users of marijuana can test positive for up to 3 days after use. Those who enjoy moderate use (more than twice per week) can test positive in a urine test for 2 to 3 weeks after the last use. Marijuana can be detected in a hair test for as long as 90 days after the last use.
Random drug testing has become the standard of many California healthcare companies and medical practices. Drug tests are almost always administered during the pre-hire process. Drug tests may also be ordered if a medical professional is impaired at work or if a patient or co-worker has filed a complaint. How can the use of marijuana affect your California medical professional license if you test positive?
Any positive result in a drug screening or test for a California medical professional must be reported to their respective agency or Board. The resulting action will based upon many factors including but not limited to:
- Was the professional under the influence while practicing as a medical professional?
- What potential risks to patient care existed?
- Is this the first such violation for the professional?
The range of potential punishment extends from a reprimand through the revocation of your professional license. How will the use of marijuana affect your California medical professional license in your present circumstances?
Contact the experienced medical professional license defense attorneys at the Watkins Firm. We have decades of experience mounting a strong defense when allegations of alcohol or drug abuse are levied by the BRN, California Medical Board or other agencies. It may be possible to seek enrollment in a “diversion program” which provides a path to rehabilitation and recovery. While this may seem like an obvious choice, it does not guarantee you won’t lose your license. These programs can affect not only your licensure, but your financial, professional and personal life as well. You need to understand the full range of options at your disposal.
How will the use of marijuana affect your California medical professional license? Have you failed a recent drug test? We invite you to review the strong recommendations of our clients and contact the Watkins Firm or call 858-535-1511 for a complimentary consultation today.
