VCOM Institutional Policy and Procedure Manual

VCOM Policy and Procedure

Policy #U010

cognitive, behavioral, physical, sensory, or psychomotor functioning necessary for participation in preclinical coursework, laboratories, simulations, assessments, and other educational activities. If a medication prevents a student from meeting the Technical Standards or safely fulfilling program requirements, the student may be deemed ineligible to continue enrollment, participate in specific activities, or progress in the program. In addition, certain clinical training environments may impose restrictions on individuals with positive drug screen results or the use of specific medications, regardless of whether the medication is legally prescribed. Students remain responsible for meeting all program and clinical training requirements and must be able to satisfy the Technical Standards for Admission and Successful Completion of the Osteopathic Program at all times. 6. SELF - IDENTIFICATION OF SUBSTANCE USE DEPENDENCE OR ARREST / CRIMINAL CHARGE OF A SUBSTANCE USE VIOLATION Students who voluntarily self-identify concerns related to substance use or dependency will be assisted in obtaining appropriate evaluation and treatment services and are encouraged to seek assistance through the campus mental health counselor or Director for Human Resources. Depending on the nature and severity of the concern, the student may be required to take a leave of absence from the medical education program, participate in treatment and monitoring, or meet other conditions deemed necessary to ensure the safety of patients, the campus community, and the educational environment. Continued enrollment is contingent upon the student's ability to meet VCOM's technical standards, comply with treatment and monitoring requirements, satisfy clinical training requirements, and otherwise fulfill the professional and academic expectations of the program. The nature and duration of treatment will be determined by qualified healthcare professionals and may include ongoing monitoring to support recovery and ensure the student's ability to safely meet VCOM's technical standards and clinical responsibilities. Costs associated with evaluation, treatment, and monitoring are the responsibility of the student. Verification of successful treatment completion and compliance with any required monitoring will be overseen by the appropriate Associate Dean or other member of VCOM administration. Treatment records will be maintained in accordance with applicable confidentiality requirements and will be disclosed only as required by law, subpoena, licensing authorities, or as necessary to determine eligibility for continued enrollment. Current students and accepted students awaiting enrollment must report an arrest or charge for any illegal behavior, including substance use, whether guilty or not guilty, to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs within 72 hours from the time of the arrest or charge. Students who do not report such an arrest or charge are considered as acting in an unprofessional and/or unethical manner and will be referred to the Professional Ethical and Standards Board (PESB). Employees must report an arrest or charge for any illegal behavior, including substance use, whether guilty or not guilty, to the Director for Human Resources within 72 hours from the time of the arrest or charge. Employees who do not report such an arrest or charge are considered as acting in an unprofessional and/or unethical manner and may be dismissed.

VCOM Substance Use, Testing, and Abuse Prevention Policy

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