Substance use disorders affect people across every profession and trade—including unionized workforces that carry high physical, emotional, and safety demands. When a union member recognizes they may need help, the path forward can feel uncertain: Who should I call? Who can I trust? Will my job be protected?
Fair Oaks Recovery Center is a healthcare community partner to many union locals, employers, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to ensure union members receive high-quality clinical care, privacy, dignity, and job protection whenever possible. Our role is not only to provide treatment—but to help navigate the systems surrounding treatment so recovery can happen without disruption.
Privacy Comes First—Always
Confidentiality is foundational to effective treatment. We strictly adhere to HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 regulations, which offer enhanced protections for individuals receiving substance use disorder treatment. With proper authorizations in place, we coordinate only the minimum necessary information with unions, employers, or EAPs—typically related to work status, documentation, and return-to-work planning—not clinical details.
This allows union members to focus on recovery while knowing their personal health information remains protected.
Common Question: Should I call my Union Representative first?
Yes. Best practice among unions generally recommends that a member contact their union representative, union wellness officer, or EAP before speaking with management, especially if safety, job security, or contractual protections are concerns. If a member prefers to call a treatment facility first like Fair Oaks Recovery Center, they should ask for the facilities Union Liaison (Mel Flagstad at Fair Oaks 949-306-0445). The Liaison can also assist, with the members’ permission, to find the appropriate Union Representative to help the member.
Important: Early union involvement helps prevent misunderstandings, preserves employment standing, and reduces stress during an already vulnerable moment. Union Representatives are trained to:
- Protect the member’s rights under collective bargaining agreements
- Explain available benefits (FMLA, disability, leave options)
- Serve as an advocate and buffer between the employee and employer
- Coordinate discreetly with treatment providers when authorized
What Union Members Often Don’t Know (But Should)
- Asking for help early often protects employment. Many unions and employers view voluntary treatment far more favorably than waiting until a crisis occurs.
- Treatment does not automatically trigger disciplinary action. In fact, many collective bargaining agreements explicitly support rehabilitation efforts.
- Recovery is compatible with high-performance careers. With proper care and support, many union members return stronger, healthier, and more focused than before.
- Aftercare is paramount! Ask your treatment center what that looks like. Structured step-down care, outpatient services, and ongoing support significantly reduce relapse risk and support long-term success.
A Collaborative Approach to Recovery
Recovery works best when treatment providers, unions, employers, and families operate from the same goal: helping the individual heal while preserving their livelihood and future. At Fair Oaks Recovery Center, we pride ourselves on being a trusted partner in that process—clinical excellence paired with operational understanding and deep respect for union culture.
If you or someone you represent is struggling, help is available—and it can be accessed discreetly, professionally, and with support at every step. Contact us for more information.
