Alcohol/Substance Abuse Support

NYSDA is committed to aiding our colleagues in addressing substance abuse and addiction. Our Chemical Dependency Committee provides a statewide network of dentist-peers who are available to assist members, their families, and the dental office staff in addressing problems with drugs or alcohol. The Committee includes dentists who have experienced both the devastation of addiction and the effectiveness of intervention and treatment in their own lives.

Practicing a profession while impaired can result in a charge of unprofessional conduct. When you speak with our Peer Assistance Coordinator, Dr. Bob Herzog – or any of the Committee’s members, your interactions are confidential and non-punitive. The Committee never refers a dentist to OPD or any other agency. When a dentist’s license is at risk, the Committee can help the dentist protect his/her license and privilege to practice through the New York State Education Department’s Professional Assistance Program (PAP). Funding is available for dentists who need in-patient treatment but do not have the financial resources to get it.

If you or a colleague is struggling with addiction, it is easy to get help. Contact Jacqueline Donnelly at NYSDA, 1-800-255-2100, or call Dr. Bob Herzog at 716-830-3055. Your call is confidential. 

Additional Substance Abuse Resources:

The New York State Education Department’s Professional Assistance Program (PAP) assists professionals who have substance abuse problems, but who have not harmed patients or clients. Such professionals may voluntarily surrender their licenses while receiving treatment rather than face charges of professional misconduct. All applications to the program are confidential. PAP can be reached by calling 518-474-3817.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism  

Alcoholics Anonymous  

Doctor to Doctor: International Doctors in Alcoholics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous