Most people may not think about it, but healthcare providers need care, too. Professionals who provide crucial care to the public are as vulnerable as anyone else regarding mental health, physical health and even addiction. In fact, these professionals may be more prone to addiction and mental disorders specifically because of the long hours and physical or emotional stress they’re constantly under. This is why the IPN/PRN services were created.

IPN stands for Impaired Professionals Network, and it’s often hailed as the premier Florida intervention project for nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals. PRN stands for Professionals Resource Network, a program that aims to connect healthcare professionals with the help they need when they need it most.

Scope of Professionals Included Under Florida IPN

A range of health professionals is included under Florida Impaired Professionals Network and Professionals Resource Network. A few prime examples include:

  • Acupuncturists

  • Chiropractors
  • Clinical social workers
  • Doctors of medicine
  • Dental hygienists and assistants
  • EMTs and paramedics
  • Licensed midwives
  • Massage therapists

  • Optometrists and opticians

  • Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
  • Speech and language pathologists
  • Psychologists and psychiatrists

This is far from an all-inclusive list, and many other healthcare providers are eligible for care under the Florida IPN. If you aren’t sure whether your profession qualifies, you can reach out to Behavioral Health Centers or your local professional regulation board. One of our knowledgeable care providers can answer any questions you may still have after reading this guide.

nurse discussing his nursing license temporary suspension

IPN Treatment Center Services Offered at Behavioral Health Centers

Behavioral Health Centers is licensed to provide Florida IPN and PRN services to medical professionals voluntarily participating in the program. Key parts of the program include detox, addiction treatment and mental health services. All these services are provided by knowledgeable, certified professionals in a comfortable, calm environment conducive to healing.

Detox

Detox is the first step towards a life of sobriety after substance abuse. During detox, your body will be purged of all addictive substances under medical supervision. Since every person’s needs are different, all our programs are personalized based on your unique needs and situation. That’s why detox always begins with an evaluation of one’s drug or alcohol problem that includes blood tests to determine how much of a particular substance (or substances) is in your system.

After the evaluation, a stabilization plan is designed and executed. These plans are designed to reduce physical or emotional harm during detox and help manage withdrawal symptoms. Everyone is different, so withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, and your stabilization plan will work to mitigate these problems as much as possible before they even begin.

Once a stabilization plan has been worked out, our team of experts will help you prepare for treatment. They’ll help you understand what to expect from the detox process and discuss your next steps once all the illicit substances are out of your system.

a nurse in therapy as a part of the intervention project for nurses in Florida

Mental Health Services

Around one in five people will battle a mental disorder during their lifetime. If you find yourself in this group, you may require inpatient treatment or outpatient mental health services. Often, residential (or inpatient) services are best for the first course of treatment, with many following this up with outpatient therapy for ongoing management.

Treatment plans for psychiatric conditions will look different for everyone. An individualized IPN/PRN program will be created for you based on several factors, including the type and severity of your mental health condition, your overall health and whether there are comorbid conditions like substance abuse. Although each plan is different, your unique treatment program will likely include a combination of talk therapy, medications, education and supplemental therapies, as appropriate.

a public health professional battling substance abuse

Addiction Treatment

Addiction to alcohol or drugs can happen to anyone, and it can be challenging to overcome on your own. It can even be easier for doctors or nurses who can easily do drug diversion and fall into substance abuse. However, our addiction treatment program is designed to help you get clean and support you in staying sober throughout the rest of your lifetime. During addiction treatment, the goal is to treat any underlying causes of addiction. For example, IPN programs may include talk therapy to work out previous traumas, manage mental illnesses or teach you healthier coping mechanisms for stress.

Detox is generally the first step in addiction treatment. This may be followed by residential or outpatient treatment. However, when mental health problems are the root cause of addiction, a dual-diagnosis program is the best choice.

Get Help Today at Our IPN Treatment Center

If you or a loved one needs help from a licensed IPN treatment center in Florida, Behavioral Health Centers is ready to provide you with the compassionate care you need. Call us at 772-774-3872 to get immediate help. You can also reach out using our secure online contact form and someone will contact you as soon as possible. Start the road to recovery today.

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Medically reviewed by:

Dr. K. Dodge, PhD, MSPH, MSW

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