Student Assistance Facilitator

Joe Schwenkler, MD
675 Hoes Lane
Piscataway, NJ 08854
732-235-4445
schwenjo@umdnj.edu

Mission

RWJMS recognizes the difficulties and stresses that accompany the pursuit of professional and scientific careers and the complications that arise if alcohol, drugs, emotional or physical impairment occurs. As educators of future healthcare and scientific professionals, the RWJMS community has a special responsibility to assure that help is available to any student who may be impaired due to mental health and substance abuse problems.

The purpose of the Student Assistance Facilitator (SAF) is to help students who may be suffering from mental health and/or substance abuse problems to obtain appropriate and effective treatment as early as possible. Self-referrals as well as referrals from all members of the RWJMS community are encouraged. In addition, the SAF recognizes the importance of confidential and early intervention in helping with full recovery. The SAF is available to answer questions, to provide information, or to suggest referral.

Respect for Privacy

The SAF is mindful of students’ privacy and gives impaired students an opportunity to continue their education without stigma during recovery and maintenance.

University Policy

It is UMDNJ's policy to assist impaired students to achieve and maintain optimal health. In some cases, the committee may take immediate action to protect the health and safety of the student and others.