Support for Nurses in Need: A Conversation with TN-PAP's Teresa Phillips, hosted by Dr Lisa Beasley
September 24, 2025
On today's episode of Voices from the Nursing Frontline, host Dr. Lisa Beasley sits down with Teresa Phillips, Associate Executive Director of the Tennessee Professional Assistance Program (TN-PAP). Together, they unpack how TN-PAP supports healthcare professionals navigating substance use disorders—through confidential services, structured monitoring, and a proven track record of success.
Teresa also tackles the tough topics of stigma, resource challenges, and why raising awareness is critical to protecting and uplifting nurses across Tennessee. đź’™
Tune in to learn how TN-PAP is changing lives and how you can connect with their services.
https://tnpap.org/
Takeaways
TINPAP is a monitoring program for healthcare professionals.
Confidentiality is crucial to prevent retaliatory actions.
The primary mission of TINPAP is public safety.
90% of nurses in TINPAP succeed in recovery.
Challenges include affordability and stigma.
Insurance typically does not cover drug screenings.
TINPAP offers resources and support for nurses.
Employers can seek guidance on addressing impairment.
Awareness and outreach are essential for reducing stigma.
Accessing TINPAP services is straightforward through their website.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to TINPAP and Teresa Phillips
02:56 Understanding the Tennessee Professional Assistance Program
05:24 Confidentiality and Reporting in TINPAP
08:35 Monitoring Framework and Expectations
11:15 Success Rates and Outcomes of TINPAP
14:31 Challenges and Future Goals for TINPAP
17:22 Resources and Support for Nurses
20:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
TINPAP is a monitoring program for healthcare professionals.
Confidentiality is crucial to prevent retaliatory actions.
The primary mission of TINPAP is public safety.
90% of nurses in TINPAP succeed in recovery.
Challenges include affordability and stigma.
Insurance typically does not cover drug screenings.
TINPAP offers resources and support for nurses.
Employers can seek guidance on addressing impairment.
Awareness and outreach are essential for reducing stigma.
Accessing TINPAP services is straightforward through their website.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to TINPAP and Teresa Phillips
02:56 Understanding the Tennessee Professional Assistance Program
05:24 Confidentiality and Reporting in TINPAP
08:35 Monitoring Framework and Expectations
11:15 Success Rates and Outcomes of TINPAP
14:31 Challenges and Future Goals for TINPAP
17:22 Resources and Support for Nurses
20:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts