Numerous different licensed medical professionals have access to controlled substances. Pharmacists and the technicians who assist them compound and dispense drugs to healthcare professionals and members of the public. Doctors can write prescriptions, while nurses may administer medications to those staying in a healthcare facility.
Any of those medical professionals might engage in misconduct related to medication. Doctors sometimes write unnecessary prescriptions to fill for their own use. Nurses and other professionals may divert medication by replacing it with other drugs or by simply failing to give the medication to a patient.
Legal prosecution is not the only consequence that healthcare professionals implicated in a drug diversion scenario are at risk for. Even if the patient or an employer does not involve law enforcement, a healthcare professional diverting drugs for personal use may be at risk of losing their medical license.
Drug abuse is a common industry issue
Healthcare professionals work very stressful jobs. They often need to make personal sacrifices to develop their careers. Even their relationships may suffer because of their commitment to their work. Research shows that physicians and other health care professionals with access to narcotic pain relievers have higher rates of substance abuse than other demographics.
What starts out as a one-time decision to pocket a few extra pills may ultimately result in a habit that affects professional performance and patient care. Whether an employer uncovers a large amount of missing medication or a patient complains, the professional implicated in the matter could be at risk.
They could lose their job. They could also face disciplinary actions initiated by the licensing authority for their specific profession. In the worst-case scenario, health care professionals face prosecution and the loss of professional licenses.
Those who face consequences related to drug diversion may need help responding to the matter. In some cases, avoiding a criminal conviction can help prevent professional consequences. Other times, healthcare workers may need assistance when responding to professional disciplinary efforts. Seeking out treatment for the substance abuse disorder or injury prompting the drug diversion can play a role in successfully limiting the fallout that follows accusations.
Having professional support while dealing with a medical licensing issue may make all the difference. People may need help strategizing and presenting their cases in front of the licensing board. The right response to criminal charges or professional accusations can help people maintain the careers in which they have invested years of their lives and thousands of dollars in educational expenses.
