More Information About the (CARES) Compassion, Accountability, Recovery, Empowerment & Safety Program
This new name reflects our ongoing commitment to support Washington’s nursing professionals with compassion and integrity while safeguarding the public through regulation and health support and verification.
The CARES Program actively works to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use in the nursing profession. We believe that recovery is possible, and that every nurse deserves access to confidential, respectful, and empowering support.
We strive to foster a culture of trust, dignity, and mutual respect through clear communication and a collaborative approach, while protecting the public with a robust health verification program that reinforces accountability and safety.
- A team of case managers who each have extensive knowledge of substance use disorder. Each nurse is assigned one case manager for their entire program participation.
- Peer Support Groups (PSG) – PSG meetings are not open to the public; they are open to nurses in the CARES program. It is a private, weekly meeting, facilitated by medical professionals with substance use knowledge. These meetings offer nurses a sense of community amongst peers experiencing similar challenges and who can relate.
CARES Support Links
It’s estimated that 10-15% of nurses have a substance use disorder. Undiagnosed and untreated, substance use disorder can result in legal issues, nursing license suspension, patient/public harm, and even death.
Fortunately, substance use disorder is treatable. Appropriate and effective treatment is tailored to meet the nurse’s recovery needs along with proper support programs increasing the chance of their continued sobriety and long-term recovery.
Mental Health Resources for Nurses
- Mental Health Resources PDF Download
- 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- 988 or 1-800-273-8255 (24 hours a day)
Referrals
Nurses may be referred to CARES by their licensing authority, employers, associations, colleagues, friends, or family members. Early referral ensures public protection and increases recovery outcomes.
Participants
This page contains resources and information for those participating, or interested in participating, in the CARES program.
Employers
Employers who wish to learn more about substance use disorder and its prevalence in the nursing profession may access Education resources at the CARES website.
Treatment Providers
Information for Treatment Providers of Substance Use Disorder
Resources
CARES provides education during student courses, staff meetings, conferences, and employer management groups.
Substance Use Disorder Monitoring Stipend Program
As stipulated by RCW 18.79.440, the Substance Use Disorder Monitoring Stipend Program provides financial support for participants of the CARES program by defraying up to 80% of out-of-pocket expenses for substance use evaluations, peer support group participation, and testing costs for individuals who qualify. Participants must actively participate in the CARES program or a recent graduate.
Stipend Program Statistics – Current Through September 30, 2025
| Data: | |
|---|---|
| Total number of individuals that have participated in the stipend program: | 45 |
| Average total amount of eligible expenses defrayed for each participant: | $618.13 |
| Aggregated total amount of expenses that have been defrayed for all individuals that have participated in the stipend program: | $29,670.40 |
| The amount of funds available for the stipend program: | $20,329.60 |
For additional information, please call CARES at (360)236-2880 option 1 or email whps@doh.wa.gov.
Confidential Screening
Answering a few short questions about alcohol or other drug use provides a quick and easy way to determine how substance use may be affecting your health and other areas of your life.