Drugs diversion is when controlled prescription drugs are redirected for personal use, sale or distribution to others. It is an illegal activity that is prevalent across the US healthcare sector.
Drugs diversion is dangerous. It can result in medication switches, for example fentanyl can be switched with saline – both are clear liquids. This results in patients who need the original drug being given a replacement which does not give them the pain relief they need. Drugs diversion may lead to infection where syringes are contaminated and poses a risk to patients.
Drugs diversion can result in stock shortages and presents management issues including human resources, regulatory compliance, inventory management, patient care and finance.
One concern is the potential for inadequate standards of care from impaired healthcare workers.
Putting a system in place to prevent drugs diversion is high priority.