The state-contracted rehabilitation and monitoring program for doctors, nurses and other health care professionals struggling with addiction and mental health issues may be headed for an overhaul.

In light of a critical audit report written by nonpartisan legislative staff, recent reporting by Montana Free Press about a participant suicide and sharp questions last month from concerned lawmakers, the Gianforte administration’s Department of Labor and Industry in September launched an advisory council to recommend changes to the scope and purpose of the program designed and run by the current vendor, Virginia-based Maximus, Inc.

In their first meeting the evening of Oct. 2, members of the advisory council unanimously recommended that the labor department extend Maximus’ contract until the

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