What Types of Programs Will a SAP Professional Refer Me To?
A SAP professional (SAP) evaluates DOT-mandated, safety-sensitive employees who violated DOT alcohol and drug regulations and prescribes necessary treatment, education, and follow-up tests.
The SAP professional ensures public safety by making the correct assessments, recommending the correct treatment, and ensuring that the employee is fit to resume safety-sensitive duties.
Qualifications Required to Become a SAP Professional
The following persons can become DOT Substance Abuse Professionals:
- Licensed Physician (Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy)
- Licensed or certified Social Worker
- Licensed or certified Marriage and Family Therapist
- Licensed or certified Psychologist
- Licensed or certified Employee Assistance Professional
- Drug and Alcohol Counselor certified by the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors Certification Commission(NAADAC), the International Certification Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and other Drug Abuse (ICRC) or the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC)
Additionally, the professionals must undergo professional training relating to SAP functions. A DOT Qualified SAP professional performs the following functions if employees fail drug or alcohol tests:
- Initial screening and comprehensive face-to-face assessment
- Identification and recommendation of the appropriate treatment plan
- Follow-up assessment with employee
- Recommendation for employee to submit to return-to-duty drug and/or alcohol test
- Recommendation of aftercare programs (if necessary) and follow-up testing
Types of Programs SAP Professionals Recommend
The SAP may recommend:
- Outpatient treatment programs for employees who do not need residential care programs
- Full inpatient treatment programs or addiction rehabilitation programs if the employee’s drug or alcohol abuse problem is critical
- Individual therapy programs like cognitive behavioral therapy or psychotherapy for employees who need one-on-one counseling
- Group therapy programs for employees who will benefit from group support while working on their drug or alcohol abuse disorder
- Other education and training programs relating to drug or alcohol abuse based on the employee’s requirements
The SAP also ensures that employees comply with the return-to-duty process as per DOT guidelines. Once the process is complete, the SAP provides the relevant return-to-duty documents to the employer, unless the employee is no longer employed.
Contact Us
Safety-sensitive employees and employers who need the services of a DOT qualified SAP professional can get in touch with SRS. As a leading facilitator for mandated evaluations, we work with clinical specialists in over 3,000 locations in America. To get in touch with SRS call 410-668-8110 today.