Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Prescription Drug Diversion

Prescription Drug Diversion in Healthcare refers to the unauthorized or illegal transfer of controlled substances, such as prescription drugs, from their intended recipient to another person. This can occur within healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and clinics, as well as in the broader community.

Prescription drug diversion can have serious consequences, including:

Increased risk of harm to patients

Decreased trust in healthcare providers and organizations

Potential legal and regulatory consequences for healthcare providers and organizations

Contribution to the opioid epidemic and other drug abuse problems.

To prevent prescription drug diversion, healthcare organizations may implement strategies such as:

Conducting regular audits of controlled substance inventory and use

Implementing secure storage and dispensing procedures

Providing education and training for staff on prescription drug abuse and diversion

Screening and monitoring employees for signs of substance abuse

Reporting suspected cases of drug diversion to law enforcement.