Alternatives to VDAP — What Are Your Options?
For Alabama nurses facing allegations related to substance use, mental health, or professional misconduct, the Voluntary Disciplinary Alternative Program (VDAP) can appear to be the only way forward. However, Kreps Law Firm wants every nurse to know this important truth: VDAP is not your only option. In many cases, there are better, less burdensome ways to resolve the situation—if you know where to look and who to trust.
The first alternative is to contest the allegations directly through the administrative process. Many nurses don’t realize they have the right to demand evidence, question witnesses, and present a defense before any disciplinary action is taken. Kreps Law Firm has helped numerous clients challenge accusations and avoid enrollment in VDAP altogether. This path requires strategic legal planning, but it also offers the chance to preserve both a nurse’s license and their autonomy.
Another potential route is negotiation. Sometimes, the Board of Nursing will agree to a consent order or a reduced disciplinary outcome that doesn’t include the harsh conditions of VDAP. For instance, a nurse might agree to periodic reporting or targeted evaluations without being placed under full monitoring. These types of agreements are not typically offered to unrepresented individuals—having an experienced attorney is key to opening those doors.
Some cases might involve misunderstandings, incomplete evidence, or procedural errors that weaken the Board’s position. In those situations, Kreps Law Firm can identify leverage points to request a dismissal or withdrawal of the complaint. Even when the situation looks difficult, the firm’s attorneys approach each case individually, recognizing that no two nurses—and no two allegations—are the same.
Beyond these formal options, there are also non-disciplinary interventions that can be explored privately and confidentially. For example, a nurse struggling with stress or burnout may benefit from counseling or peer support without ever involving the Board. Kreps often helps clients craft proactive wellness plans that demonstrate accountability and responsibility, without handing over control to an external monitoring program.
The most important step is to avoid acting out of fear. Many nurses accept the VDAP offer simply because they feel cornered or ashamed. Kreps Law Firm encourages every nurse to pause, breathe, and seek legal advice before making any decisions. Once you understand your options, you can choose a path that preserves your dignity, your career, and your future.