from the Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Drug Misuse Prevention and Recovery, Ohio State University.
Federal Law Supersedes State Law: Under federal law, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. As a result, healthcare facilities, especially those receiving federal funding, must adhere to federal regulations that prohibit marijuana use, regardless of state laws.
ÎÞÂëȺ½», many hospitals, and clinical sites enforce zero-tolerance drug policies for employees, students, and trainees. RFU's policies usually ban marijuana use, including for medical purposes, in order to ensure patient safety and compliance with federal guidelines.
Students in clinical settings may be required to undergo pre-employment, random, or for-cause drug testing. A positive result for THC, even if derived from legal recreational or medical use, may lead to potential dismissal from academic programs.
students are encouraged to review the specific policies of their own programs regarding return to work and clinical settings. For more information regarding specific policies regarding drug and alcohol use at RFU, , starting on page 26.
Patient safety is paramount in clinical environments, and impairment caused by substances such as cannabis is viewed as a serious concern. Even legal marijuana use can raise allegations of impairment, which may impact professional responsibilities and licensure.
Healthcare licensing boards (e.g., nursing or medical boards) may regard marijuana use as unprofessional conduct or as evidence of substance use disorder. The reporting requirements for positive drug tests vary and may affect applications for licensure or renewals.