Drug Diversion Insights with Terri Vidals

Drug diversion software can help identify risk, analyze patterns, and prioritize potential concerns—but technology alone doesn't create an effective diversion prevention program.In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Gordon Watkins of Wolters Kluwer joins us to explore what actually makes a drug diversion program work and why people, process, and technology all need to be part of the strategy.Drug diversion often receives significant attention after a case is discovered. The harder challenge is building the systems, processes, and organizational culture needed to identify potential problems earlier.Gordon discusses what separates a comprehensive diversion program from one that simply exists on paper—and why purchasing sophisticated diversion software doesn't eliminate the need for experienced professionals to manage the program.In this episode, we discuss:Why diversion software cannot operate effectively on its ownThe importance of people, process, and technology working togetherWhat can happen when organizations implement software and then reduce diversion program staffingHow technology can help identify activity that warrants further investigationWhy every alert still requires appropriate review and follow-upHow organizations can govern their diversion technologyHow to confirm alerts are actually being workedWhat organizations should expect during the first month of implementation versus a mature programWhy data quality is critical to effective diversion analyticsHow incomplete or inconsistent data feeds can affect monitoringWhat diversion technology needs from the organization to perform effectivelyMachine learning versus generative artificial intelligenceHow Sentri7 uses machine learning in drug diversion monitoringWhy human judgment remains essential even as analytics become more sophisticatedWhat diversion program leaders should continually re-examine as their programs evolveWe also address an increasingly important topic in healthcare technology: machine learning and artificial intelligence.Gordon explains the distinction between the machine learning used within Sentri7 and the generative AI technologies that have become widely discussed in recent years. Understanding that difference can help healthcare leaders better evaluate what their diversion technology is actually doing—and what it still requires from the people using it.Another major theme is governance.Generating an alert is only the beginning. Someone still needs to review the information, understand the clinical and operational context, determine whether additional investigation is necessary, document the outcome, and ensure potential concerns don't disappear into a queue.The same applies to data. Even sophisticated analytics depend on the quality and completeness of the information being provided.Ultimately, this conversation reinforces an important principle for healthcare organizations:Buying diversion software is not the same as building a diversion program.Technology can make monitoring and investigations more efficient, but effective diversion prevention still depends on trained people, defined processes, reliable data, appropriate governance, and organizational support.Whether your organization already uses diversion monitoring software—from Wolters Kluwer or another vendor—or is evaluating whether to implement it, this episode offers practical questions to bring back to your diversion team.An important conversation for drug diversion specialists, pharmacists, pharmacy leaders, medication safety professionals, compliance teams, nursing leaders, risk management professionals, healthcare executives, controlled substance committees, and healthcare technology leaders responsible for strengthening medication oversight and protecting patients.More from Rxpert Solutions

Buprenorphine saves lives, yet it remains surrounded by myths, stigma, and misunderstanding. Is it simply replacing one opioid with another? What happens when a patient taking buprenorphine needs surgery or treatment for acute pain? And should a positive test for another substance mean treatment has failed?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Jef Bratberg, PharmD, FAPhA, Clinical Professor of Pharmacy Practice at the University of Rhode Island, joins us for an evidence-based conversation about buprenorphine, opioid use disorder (OUD), harm reduction, pain management, and recovery.Jef shares his journey from infectious disease and critical care pharmacy into advocacy and policy work, and how that path led him to become a nationally recognized voice in harm reduction, naloxone access, and the treatment of opioid use disorder.From there, we tackle some of the most persistent questions surrounding buprenorphine.In this episode, we discuss:What buprenorphine is and its role in treating opioid use disorderWhy the idea that buprenorphine simply “replaces one addiction with another” misses important clinical distinctionsDependence versus addictionWhy stigma continues to limit access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)Buprenorphine's role in recovery and harm reductionWhy buprenorphine remains underused for pain managementManaging acute pain in patients stabilized on buprenorphineWhat clinicians should consider when a patient taking buprenorphine needs surgeryThe use of additional opioid analgesics when clinically necessaryWhether exposure to opioids for legitimate acute pain can affect recoveryWhat a positive test for another substance should mean during treatmentWhy continued substance use doesn't automatically mean treatment has failedNaloxone access and overdose preventionThe role pharmacists can play in improving access to evidence-based treatmentOne particularly important part of the conversation focuses on hospitalization and pain management.Patients receiving buprenorphine still experience surgery, injuries, and acute painful conditions. Clinicians therefore need a plan that addresses both adequate pain control and continuity of opioid use disorder treatment.We also examine what happens when someone receiving treatment tests positive for another substance. Rather than treating a test result as the entire clinical picture, the conversation explores what that result can tell the care team and why continued engagement in treatment matters.Ultimately, this episode is about moving beyond stigma and misconceptions toward a better understanding of a treatment that can play a critical role in reducing the harms associated with opioid use disorder.Whether you're a pharmacist, physician, nurse, addiction medicine professional, pain management clinician, healthcare leader, person in recovery, or family member, this conversation offers a practical and compassionate look at what buprenorphine actually does—and the barriers that still prevent people from receiving effective care.More from Rxpert Solutions

A strong drug diversion program shouldn't just help you investigate what already happened. It should help you identify risk earlier and give your team the information needed to act.In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Rick Couldry, Chief Pharmacy and Clinical Officer at Omnicell, and Jay Patel, Product Manager for Diversion Management, join us to explore how healthcare organizations can move from reactive diversion investigations toward a more proactive, connected approach to diversion management.Drug diversion programs generate enormous amounts of data, but data alone doesn't create visibility. The challenge is connecting information across medication workflows, identifying meaningful patterns, and turning those patterns into actionable insights.Rick and Jay discuss what changes when diversion management becomes part of a broader medication-management ecosystem rather than operating as another isolated point solution.In this episode, we discuss:Why healthcare drug diversion remains difficult to detect proactivelyHow connected medication data can strengthen diversion monitoringTurning diversion data into actionable insightsThe role of technology in supporting diversion investigations Why integration across medication-management workflows mattersOmnicell's approach to Diversion ManagementHow Diversion Management fits into Omnicell's broader medication-management strategyOmniSphere and the future of connected medication managementThe conversation also looks at OmniSphere, Omnicell's cloud-native platform, and what a more connected medication-management environment could mean for diversion teams.For healthcare organizations, the goal isn't simply to collect more data. It's to make that data more useful.Can connected systems provide the visibility needed to recognize potential diversion patterns sooner? Can analytics help teams focus limited investigative resources on the activity that matters most? And how can technology become part of a comprehensive diversion strategy that brings together people, processes, governance, and data?This episode is for pharmacy leaders, drug diversion specialists, medication safety professionals, compliance teams, nursing leaders, risk management professionals, healthcare executives, and health system technology leaders looking for ways to strengthen controlled substance oversight and move their diversion programs from reactive to proactive.Drug Diversion Insights is presented by Rxpert Solutions, bringing together healthcare leaders and industry experts to examine the challenges, strategies, and technologies shaping drug diversion prevention and medication safety.

Cannabis laws are changing across the United States—but what should that mean for healthcare professionals working in safety-sensitive, patient-facing roles?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Abby Migliore, COO of the Intervention Project for Nurses (IPN), and Shannon Opie, CEO, return to tackle one of the most complicated issues facing healthcare organizations today: cannabis, THC testing, workplace policy, impairment, and patient safety.Many healthcare facilities have strong drug diversion prevention and monitoring programs, yet cannabis is often treated differently. State laws vary widely, the federal regulatory landscape continues to evolve, and employers are left trying to determine how to create policies that are fair, defensible, and centered on safe patient care.Then there's the testing problem.Unlike alcohol, where testing can provide information about recent use and estimated alcohol concentration, a positive THC test does not necessarily establish whether a healthcare professional is impaired at that moment. THC metabolites may remain detectable after the impairing effects have passed, creating difficult questions for employers and monitoring programs.In this episode, we discuss:Why cannabis presents a unique challenge for healthcare workplace policiesMedical versus recreational cannabis use among healthcare professionalsThe changing state and federal landscape surrounding marijuanaHow cannabis differs from alcohol in safety-sensitive workplacesWhether healthcare facilities should maintain cannabis-free workplace policiesHow organizations can balance employee considerations with their responsibility to protect patientsThe central issue isn't simply whether cannabis is legal.It's whether healthcare organizations have established a clear standard for professionals whose work directly affects the safety of patients.If an adverse event occurs and a healthcare professional subsequently tests positive for THC, determining whether cannabis contributed to the event may be difficult. But the absence of a clear policy can create uncertainty for everyone involved.What standard should healthcare adopt when the law, science, testing technology, and patient safety expectations don't align neatly?This episode doesn't pretend there is a simple answer. Instead, Abby and Shannon help unpack what we know, what we still don't know, and why healthcare organizations need to have this conversation before an incident forces them to.An important discussion for nurses, pharmacists, physicians, healthcare executives, HR leaders, compliance professionals, employee health teams, risk managers, diversion specialists, and anyone responsible for workplace drug and impairment policies.More from Rxpert Solutions

Why do we so often wait until a nurse fails, an incident occurs, or patient safety is at risk before connecting someone with help?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri is joined by Abby Migliore and Shannon Opie of the Intervention Project for Nurses (IPN), Florida's alternative-to-discipline program for nurses with substance use disorders and other conditions that may affect safe practice.A national survey found that 18% of registered nurses screened positive for a substance use problem, with approximately one-third of those screening positive for a substance use disorder. Those findings raise an important question: Are we doing enough to recognize and support healthcare professionals before a problem reaches a crisis point?Abby and Shannon take us inside the alternative-to-discipline process and explain what structured recovery and return to nursing practice actually look like.In this episode, we discuss:How alternative-to-discipline programs for nurses workWhat happens when a nurse enters IPNEvaluation, treatment, and ongoing recovery monitoringDrug and alcohol testing requirements and testing cadenceWorkplace restrictions during return to practiceThe role of supervised return-to-work plansWhat neurocognitive testing evaluates before a nurse returns to practiceMedications for opioid use disorder in safety-sensitive healthcare rolesThe balance between workplace accommodation and patient safetyWhy healthcare organizations often wait for a “smoking gun” before interveningThe opportunity to recognize problems and connect nurses with support earlierAlternative-to-discipline doesn't mean eliminating accountability. It's about creating a structured pathway that supports recovery while keeping safe nursing practice and patient protection at the center.This conversation is especially relevant for nurses, nurse leaders, healthcare executives, employee health professionals, diversion specialists, compliance teams, professional monitoring programs, and anyone interested in substance use disorder among healthcare professionals.And there's more to come. Abby and Shannon will return for another conversation focused on cannabis in patient-facing healthcare roles, including the complicated question of cannabis-free workplace policies in states where cannabis is legal.Follow Drug Diversion Insights so you don't miss Part 2.More from Rxpert Solutions

What happens when a pharmacy professional experiences a substance use disorder, enters recovery, and then returns to the same workplace—with the same colleagues and access to controlled substances?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, we hear both sides of that experience.One guest shares what it was like to return to pharmacy practice after substance use disorder and rebuild trust with colleagues. The other shares the perspective of the pharmacy leader responsible for maintaining the safeguards, accountability, and support needed to make that return safe for employees and patients alike.Together, they tackle a difficult question healthcare organizations often avoid: Can a healthcare professional in recovery safely return to a role with access to controlled substances?We discuss:What returning to pharmacy practice after substance use disorder really looks likeThe challenges of rebuilding trust with coworkersAccountability measures and safeguards that support a safe return to practiceHow pharmacy leaders can support recovery without compromising patient safetyThe role of state pharmacy recovery and professional monitoring programsWhy transparency about recovery can be a strengthHow stigma can discourage healthcare professionals from seeking helpWhy open conversations about substance use disorder can strengthen workplace cultureWhether having a professional in recovery on the team can actually increase awareness and accountability around controlled substancesSupporting recovery and protecting patients don't have to be opposing goals.With appropriate monitoring, clear expectations, accountability, and a workplace willing to have honest conversations about substance use disorder, healthcare professionals can be supported while patient and medication safety remain the priority.This episode is for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, pharmacy leaders, diversion specialists, compliance professionals, healthcare executives, and anyone interested in creating a safer and more supportive approach to substance use disorder in healthcare.Sometimes the safest pharmacy isn't the one where substance use disorder is never discussed. It's the one where people feel safe enough to talk about it.More from Rxpert Solutions

Substance use disorder rarely begins with the substance itself.Long before addiction develops, many individuals are navigating a complex combination of chronic pain, mental health challenges, trauma, and other life circumstances that increase their risk. Understanding those connections helps us recognize substance use disorder earlier and respond more effectively.In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri welcomes back Dr. Paul Lynch, anesthesiologist and CEO of US Pain Care, along with his father, Larry Lynch, a licensed clinical social worker. Together, they combine medical and behavioral health perspectives to explore why treating pain, mental health, and substance use disorder as separate conditions often falls short.In this episode, we discuss:The relationship between chronic pain and substance use disorderHow mental health influences both pain and addictionThe concept of the tri-diagnosis: pain, mental health, and substance use disorderExpanding to the quad-diagnosis, incorporating homelessness as another critical factorThe challenge of determining whether pain or mental health issues come firstWhy integrated, whole-person care leads to better outcomesThe importance of reducing stigma surrounding substance use disorderHow earlier intervention can improve both patient care and long-term recoveryWhether you're a physician, pharmacist, nurse, behavioral health professional, addiction specialist, healthcare leader, or simply interested in understanding the complexity of substance use disorder, this episode offers valuable insight into the factors that exist long before addiction becomes visible.By looking upstream, we can better understand the root causes of substance use disorder and create opportunities for earlier intervention, more compassionate care, and better outcomes for patients.More from Rxpert Solutions

Can remote drug and alcohol testing deliver the same level of confidence as traditional collection methods?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri sits down with Chris Roames, Chief Operating Officer of RecoveryTrek, to explore how remote drug testing is transforming recovery monitoring, professional health programs, treatment centers, employers, and healthcare organizations.RecoveryTrek has been supporting substance use monitoring programs since 2011. Its flagship platform, PROOF, enables participants to complete drug and alcohol testing remotely—from home or virtually anywhere—while incorporating guided specimen collection, identity verification, and safeguards designed to maintain specimen integrity.Chris explains what makes remote testing effective, walks through the different specimen collection methods, and addresses one of the biggest questions organizations have: How can you be confident the sample came from the right person and wasn't tampered with?In this episode, you'll learn:How remote drug and alcohol testing worksThe technology behind RecoveryTrek's PROOF platformHow participant identity is verified during remote collectionsMethods used to help protect specimen integrityDifferent specimen types and when each is usedApplications for healthcare organizations, treatment centers, employers, courts, and professional monitoring programsHow remote testing can reduce barriers while improving complianceWhere remote testing fits into today's recovery and healthcare landscapeWhether you work in healthcare, behavioral health, addiction treatment, professional monitoring, compliance, or employee health, this episode provides an inside look at how technology is making drug testing more accessible while maintaining the standards organizations depend on.As monitoring programs continue to evolve, remote testing is helping improve convenience for participants while reducing administrative burden for organizations—without losing sight of accountability and compliance.More from Rxpert Solutions

How do you build a single, standardized drug diversion program across a large health system when every hospital, infusion center, and outpatient location has developed its own processes?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri welcomes Deepika Nayyar, Network Manager of Pharmacy Quality, Compliance, and Accreditation at Hackensack Meridian Health, to discuss the real-world challenges of implementing a system-wide diversion prevention program across diverse care settings.Deepika shares how her team evaluated existing practices, established baseline standards, and created a consistent approach to diversion prevention while recognizing the unique operational needs of inpatient hospitals, outpatient pharmacies, and infusion centers.The conversation also explores an often-overlooked area of diversion monitoring: medications with abuse potential that are not controlled substances. These medications frequently fall outside the capabilities of traditional diversion monitoring software, creating risks that require additional oversight, clinical expertise, and thoughtful auditing.In this episode, you'll learn:How to standardize a diversion program across multiple healthcare facilitiesWhy diversion monitoring differs between inpatient and outpatient settingsStrategies for monitoring medications with abuse potential beyond controlled substancesThe limitations of current diversion software and analyticsData elements that could improve diversion detectionHow medication safety and sterile compounding experience strengthen diversion prevention effortsPractical lessons from leading pharmacy quality, compliance, and accreditation across a large health systemWhether you're a pharmacy leader, diversion specialist, compliance professional, medication safety officer, or healthcare executive, this episode provides practical insights for building a stronger, more consistent diversion prevention program.Technology plays an important role—but successful diversion prevention still depends on strong processes, critical thinking, and a culture of accountability.More from Rxpert Solutions

Every diversion investigation begins with data—but the quality of your conclusions depends on the objectivity of your audit.In this Quick Take on Diversion Insights, Terri explores one of the most overlooked challenges in diversion monitoring: confirmation bias. Before a report ever reaches leadership, bias can influence how data is interpreted, which transactions receive attention, and whether an employee is evaluated fairly.This episode focuses on practical strategies for conducting objective, evidence-based audits that protect both patient safety and the healthcare professionals whose careers may be affected by the findings.In this episode, we discuss:Why objectivity begins with the auditorHow confirmation bias can influence diversion investigationsThe importance of comparing employees with appropriate peer groupsWhy trends over time are more meaningful than isolated eventsUnderstanding the strengths and limitations of your audit toolsThe questions every auditor should ask before drawing conclusionsBuilding fair, consistent, and defensible diversion investigationsA strong diversion program isn't about proving a theory—it's about following the evidence wherever it leads.Whether you're a diversion specialist, pharmacist, compliance professional, medication safety leader, nurse leader, or healthcare executive, this Quick Take offers practical guidance for improving the quality and integrity of your auditing process.More from Rxpert Solutions

What exactly counts as a "significant loss" of controlled substances?It's one of the most common questions in diversion prevention—and one the DEA intentionally leaves unanswered. That ambiguity can make reporting decisions difficult, especially for large healthcare systems with multiple facilities.In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri is joined by Calvin Parmiter, System Pharmacy Manager for Diversion and Compliance at WVU Medicine, and Shannan Molnar, Drug Diversion Coordinator, to discuss how their team created a standardized process for defining significant loss and built a diversion prevention program that works across an entire health system.In this episode, we discuss:Why the DEA intentionally leaves "significant loss" undefinedHow WVU Medicine developed standardized reporting criteriaCreating a checklist that removes guesswork from reporting decisionsBuilding consistency across multiple hospitalsThe unique challenges of supporting rural and community facilitiesPreparing local leadership to respond effectively when diversion specialists aren't on siteLessons learned from implementing a system-wide diversion programPractical advice for organizations looking to improve consistency and strengthen complianceWhether you're a diversion specialist, pharmacy leader, compliance professional, medication safety officer, or healthcare executive, this conversation offers practical strategies for creating scalable, standardized diversion prevention processes that support both regulatory compliance and patient safety.Sometimes the most effective diversion programs aren't built around reacting to problems—they're built around creating consistent processes before problems occur.More from Rxpert Solutions

What really happens during a DEA inspection?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri sits down with Brennan Luke, Regulatory and Controlled Substance Pharmacy Manager at ECU Health, to discuss what he learned after building a drug diversion prevention program from the ground up—and leading it through three DEA cyclic inspections.Drawing from firsthand experience, Brennan shares practical lessons on regulatory compliance, controlled substance accountability, and what it takes to build a diversion prevention program that earns the trust of frontline staff while standing up to regulatory scrutiny.In this episode, we discuss:What to expect during a DEA cyclic inspectionThe findings that surprised Brennan the mostLessons learned from building a diversion prevention program from scratchHow to prepare your organization before a DEA visitCommon compliance gaps and documentation challengesWhy successful diversion programs depend on collaboration—not suspicionHow to engage nursing, anesthesia, pharmacy, and leadership as partners in diversion preventionAdvice for organizations looking to strengthen their controlled substance oversightWhether you're a pharmacy leader, diversion specialist, compliance professional, medication safety officer, nurse leader, or healthcare executive, this conversation provides practical insights for creating a sustainable diversion prevention program that protects patients, supports staff, and improves compliance.Strong diversion programs aren't built on fear—they're built on trust, accountability, and continuous improvement.More from Rxpert Solutions

Drug diversion is a global challenge, but not every country approaches it the same way.In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri welcomes Mark Jackson, whose work in the United Kingdom is roughly equivalent to the FDA's Office of Criminal Investigations in the United States. Together, they explore the similarities and differences between how the UK and US regulate controlled substances, investigate diversion, and address medication security across healthcare settings.This wide-ranging conversation covers:How the UK classifies controlled substances using Classes A, B, and CHow UK classifications compare to the US scheduling systemMark's journey into diversion prevention and investigationsDiversion risks in pharmaceutical manufacturing and healthcare settingsWhy benzodiazepines appear more frequently in UK diversion cases than opioidsDifferences in opioid prescribing practices between the UK and USCultural differences in pharmacy operations and medication accessA UK perspective on American drive-thru pharmacies• Lessons both countries can learn from one another in preventing diversionWhether you work in pharmacy, healthcare compliance, medication safety, healthcare security, or diversion monitoring, this episode offers valuable insight into how two healthcare systems tackle many of the same challenges in very different ways.If you've ever wondered how drug diversion prevention looks on the other side of the Atlantic, this conversation provides a fascinating comparison.More from Rxpert Solutions

Think you need diversion analytics software to identify diversion risk?Think again.In this Quick Take on Diversion Insights, Terri shares a practical, structured approach to diversion monitoring using reports that most healthcare organizations already have access to through their Automated Dispensing Machines (ADMs).The key isn't more software—it's more direction.In this episode, you'll learn about a five-week directed audit cycle that helps organizations focus limited resources on the areas most likely to uncover risk.Topics include:• High-risk controlled substance dispense volume audits• Total waste audits• Full-dose waste audits• Controlled substance cancel transaction audits• Non-controlled substance cancel transaction audits• How ADM reports can identify audit populations• Why directed audits are often more effective than random reviews• One of the most overlooked indicators in diversion monitoring: barcode scanning complianceTerri also explores a powerful but underutilized strategy—comparing barcode scanning habits for controlled substances versus non-controlled substances. Significant differences between the two may reveal workflow issues, policy drift, or patterns that deserve further investigation.Whether you're a diversion specialist, pharmacist, compliance professional, nurse leader, or part of a medication safety team, this episode offers practical steps for strengthening diversion monitoring without investing in specialized software.Sometimes the most effective audit program starts with data you already have.More from Rxpert Solutions

How can healthcare organizations better support professionals in recovery—and help them seek assistance before substance use disorder impacts their lives, patients, or careers?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri is joined by Kristin Waite-Labott and Dr. April Lenzmeier to discuss a powerful new resource designed to help healthcare organizations establish and strengthen peer support and recovery programs.Kristin, who previously shared her own recovery journey on the podcast, co-chaired the IHFDA committee responsible for developing the Peer Support & Recovery Toolkit. Together with Dr. Lenzmeier, co-founder of the National Association of Peer Support for Nurses (NAPSN), they discuss how organizations can leverage existing best practices instead of building programs from scratch.In this episode, we explore:• Why peer support is a critical component of recovery• The importance of reaching healthcare professionals before a crisis occurs• How organizations can create recovery-friendly cultures• The value of lived experience in supporting colleagues• Common barriers to implementing peer support programs• How NAPSN is helping expand peer support resources nationwide• Practical ways healthcare organizations can use the toolkit to strengthen their programsDownload the IHFDA Peer Support & Recovery ToolkitWhether you're a healthcare leader, diversion specialist, nurse leader, pharmacist, compliance professional, or someone passionate about workforce wellbeing, this episode offers practical guidance for building systems that support recovery while protecting patients.Sometimes the best solution isn't to build something new—it's to borrow what's already working.More from Rxpert Solutions

Most diversion analytics platforms are built to monitor controlled substance activity. That's where the regulatory focus is, and that's where most dashboards direct attention. But what if an important diversion risk is hiding in a place few people review?In this Quick Take on Diversion Insights, Terri explores the often-overlooked world of cancel transactions and why they can represent a significant blind spot in diversion monitoring programs.This episode covers:• Why cancel transactions frequently go unreviewed• How non-controlled substance activity can be linked to diversion schemes• The risk of returning tampered medications to inventory• How non-controlled substances may be substituted for controlled substances• Why bedside clinical observations may not identify these events quickly• The importance of reviewing raw transaction logs, not just dashboard alerts• A real-world case where the warning signs were present in the data but initially overlookedFor diversion specialists, pharmacists, compliance professionals, medication safety teams, and healthcare leaders, this episode highlights an area that deserves greater attention in audit and monitoring strategies.Sometimes the most important clues aren't hidden—they're simply sitting in data that no one is reviewing.More from Rxpert Solutions:https://www.rxpert.solutions/

What if the most effective way to fight the addiction crisis starts long before overdose—at the point of the very first prescription?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri sits down with Dr. Paul Lynch, anesthesiologist, co-founder and CEO of US Pain Care, and founder of the Treat 'Em When You Meet 'Em Foundation, to discuss a different approach to chronic pain and addiction prevention.Dr. Lynch shares why chronic pain requires more than prescriptions alone and explains how holistic, patient-centered care can reduce unnecessary opioid exposure while improving long-term outcomes.In this conversation, we explore:• Dr. Lynch's journey from anesthesiology into pain management• The three-pronged model used at US Pain Care:Conservative careMental health integrationSubstance use treatmentThis episode offers a thoughtful and hopeful perspective on the opioid crisis, emphasizing prevention, whole-person care, and earlier intervention before patients reach a crisis point.Whether you're a clinician, patient, family member, or healthcare leader, this conversation challenges conventional thinking around chronic pain and addiction treatment.More from Rxpert Solutions

What happens when the person diverting drugs in the OR is someone you trust completely—a colleague, a mentor, a friend standing right beside you at the table?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri sits down with Carol Davis, CRNA Emeritus, to discuss the real-world impact of diversion from the perspective of someone who lived through it firsthand.Carol never diverted herself, but she found herself questioned, scrutinized, and caught in the fallout of colleagues whose substance use disorders led to dangerous decisions, broken trust, and risks to patient safety.This conversation explores:• What diversion actually looks like inside the OR• How warning signs are often missed• The emotional and professional impact on innocent coworkers• The vulnerabilities that exist in healthcare systems• Why substance use disorder can remain hidden even among trusted professionals• The importance of collaboration between anesthesia and pharmacy teamsCarol also shares a strong call to action: meaningful diversion prevention depends on intentional collaboration, communication, and shared accountability across healthcare teams.This episode is essential for anesthesia professionals, pharmacists, diversion specialists, healthcare leaders, and anyone committed to improving medication safety and patient protection.More from Rxpert Solutionshttps://www.rxpert.solutions/

The most sophisticated diversion monitoring tools are only as effective as the culture surrounding them.In this Diversion Insights Quick Take, we explore why staff engagement is one of the most important—and most overlooked—components of diversion prevention. When healthcare professionals view diversion mitigation as a program designed to protect patients and support colleagues, rather than simply punish people, they become far more likely to speak up early and participate in prevention efforts.This episode discusses:• Why culture matters more than surveillance alone• How fear and stigma prevent early reporting• The importance of psychological safety in healthcare• Why early identification of substance use disorder benefits everyone• How supportive programs strengthen accountability and trust• Practical ways to build staff engagement in diversion preventionWhether you're a nurse, pharmacist, diversion specialist, or healthcare leader, this conversation offers practical insight into creating a safer, more supportive environment for both patients and staff.More from Rxpert Solutions:https://www.rxpert.solutions/

What happens when addiction is hidden within a high-trust profession?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, pharmacist Steve Leuck shares his personal journey through cocaine and opioid addiction while continuing to practice in healthcare. For years, he navigated systems designed to protect patients—while quietly struggling behind the scenes.This conversation offers an honest look at how substance use can remain hidden, even in environments built on accountability and safety.We explore:• What fueled addiction behind the scenes• How warning signs can be missed in healthcare settings• The challenges of living a double life in a trusted role• The intervention that led to recovery• Why stigma often prevents early self-reporting• What it takes to build a culture where professionals feel safe asking for helpThis episode goes beyond one individual story. It highlights a broader issue in healthcare: prevention doesn't start with detection—it starts with creating an environment where people can come forward safely.Whether you're a healthcare professional, leader, or someone interested in recovery and patient safety, this is a conversation that challenges how we think about accountability, support, and culture.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

You don't need expensive surveillance software to start identifying diversion risk.In this Diversion Insights Quick Take, we explore how manual auditing using ADM data can be a practical and effective way to detect early warning signs—without relying on advanced technology.This episode focuses on simple, actionable strategies that any organization can implement to strengthen accountability and improve oversight.In this discussion, we cover:• How to select meaningful audit targets using existing ADM data• Why comparing “like nurses with like nurses” reveals important patterns• Identifying outliers in dispensing and waste activity• Why cancel transactions—especially on non-controlled medications—can be key red flags• Practical steps to begin or refine manual audit processes todayManual audits may not be complex, but when done consistently and thoughtfully, they can uncover risks that might otherwise go unnoticed.Whether you're building a diversion monitoring program or enhancing your current approach, this episode shows how to take meaningful action—without waiting for perfect tools.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

Are anesthesia discrepancies just documentation issues—or signals of deeper risk?In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri sits down with Dr. Jenny Dolan, Division Chief of Pediatric Anesthesia and Director of Trauma Anesthesia at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, to discuss how her team challenged the status quo—and achieved measurable change.Starting with 42 discrepancies per month and a 3% error rate, Dr. Dolan led a multi-year quality improvement (QI) initiative that addressed common gaps such as undocumented waste and medication removals without administration—issues that can obscure true diversion risk.In this conversation, we explore:• The most common drivers of anesthesia discrepancies• Why accepting discrepancies as “normal” creates risk• The seven phased interventions that led to sustained improvement• How Theory of Change guided their approach• Strategies to gain buy-in across anesthesia, pharmacy, and informatics• What meaningful, lasting change looks like in practiceThis episode offers a practical roadmap for healthcare teams looking to strengthen controlled substance accountability, reduce discrepancies, and improve diversion monitoring in anesthesia settings.More from Rxpert Solutionshttps://www.rxpert.solutions/

Controlled substance waste is one of the most vulnerable points in the medication-use process—and one of the most common gaps in diversion prevention programs.In this Diversion Insights Quick Take, we explore why delayed wasting and inconsistent witnessing create opportunities for tampering and introduce uncertainty during audits. When waste processes aren't standardized and immediate, they can compromise both patient safety and staff accountability.This episode breaks down why integrated waste at dispense is considered the gold standard—and how it helps eliminate ambiguity at a critical control point.In this discussion, we cover:• Why delayed waste increases diversion risk• The pitfalls of unwitnessed or poorly documented disposal• What “integrated waste” means in practice• How proper waste workflows strengthen audit defensibility• Practical steps to improve consistency and reduce riskWhether you're a nurse, pharmacist, diversion specialist, or healthcare leader, strengthening controlled substance waste practices is essential to building a safer, more reliable system.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, Terri sits down with Dr. Don Teater, a leading expert in pain management and addiction medicine, for a deeper exploration of buprenorphine—through both a clinical and neuroscience lens.Together, they unpack what happens in the brain after opioid exposure and how those changes shape treatment decisions for patients with and without substance use disorder.This conversation tackles some of the most complex and practical questions in addiction medicine, including:• How opioid exposure alters brain function over time• Differences in response between individuals with and without substance use disorder• When to consider abstinence-based treatment vs. buprenorphine• Whether healthcare professionals can safely return to work while on buprenorphine• Considerations after completing abstinence-based recoveryThey also explore emerging research on buprenorphine in postoperative pain management, including its safety advantages and the challenges clinicians face with dosing and efficacy in high-tolerance patients.This is a nuanced, evidence-based discussion designed for clinicians, pharmacy leaders, opioid stewardship teams, and healthcare decision-makers navigating complex treatment and policy decisions.More from Rxpert Solutionshttps://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=don_buprenorphine

Controlled substance drips and PCA infusions present unique challenges when it comes to maintaining a clear chain of custody. One of the most overlooked vulnerabilities occurs during handoffs—when responsibility for these medications transfers between nurses or departments.In this Diversion Insights Quick Take, we examine why consistent handoff practices are essential for both patient safety and diversion prevention.Without proper documentation, volume verification, and sign-offs during shift changes or patient transfers, gaps can emerge that create confusion during audits and make it harder to identify true diversion events. These gaps can also place innocent staff under unnecessary scrutiny.In this episode, we discuss:• Why chain-of-custody matters for controlled substance drips and PCAs• The role of volume checks and dual sign-offs during handoffs• How poor handoff practices create blind spots in diversion monitoring• Why clear documentation protects both patients and healthcare professionals• Practical steps to strengthen protocols and improve audit clarityWhether you're a nurse, pharmacy leader, diversion specialist, or healthcare administrator, strengthening handoff practices is a critical step toward building a more effective diversion prevention program.More from Rxpert Solutions https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=quick-take&utm_campaign=iv-drips

Few medications in addiction treatment generate as much debate as buprenorphine.After receiving significant listener feedback describing difficult experiences with this medication—particularly around discontinuation—Terri sits down with returning guest Dr. Stuart Gitlow for a candid, science-based discussion about one of the most widely used treatments for opioid use disorder.In this episode, we explore:• The science behind medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD)• Why buprenorphine has helped many patients• Reported challenges with tapering and discontinuation• Post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS)• The importance of informed consent and realistic expectationsThis conversation does not dismiss patient experiences, nor does it ignore the life-saving role buprenorphine has played in recovery. Instead, it brings nuance to a complex issue—balancing clinical evidence with lived experience.Whether you are a provider, patient, policymaker, or simply interested in addiction medicine, this episode offers thoughtful insight into efficacy, expectations, and long-term outcomes.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=buprenorphine

When poor medication administration practices become routine, they create noise—noise that makes it nearly impossible to identify true drug diversion. Shortcuts, workarounds, and inconsistent documentation don't just weaken compliance; they undermine safety and accountability.In this Diversion Insights Quick Take from Rxpert Solutions, we break down why strong medication administration fundamentals are the foundation of effective diversion mitigation.In this episode, we discuss:How poor med admin practices obscure real diversion riskWhy setting good practice as a non-negotiable expectation mattersThe role of clear policies and procedures in diversion preventionHow targeted education improves audits, monitoring, and accountabilityWhether you're a nurse, pharmacist, diversion analyst, or compliance leader, this short, focused episode reinforces a critical truth: you can't identify diversion when basic practice is optional.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=quick_takes&utm_campaign=med_admin_basics

Drug diversion investigations in healthcare are among the most sensitive interviews an investigator can conduct. When handled poorly, these interviews can fail to uncover the truth—and permanently damage an innocent professional's career.In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, I'm joined by Dave Thompson, former head of diversion investigations for a large retail pharmacy chain and current President of Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates. Dave brings decades of experience conducting high-stakes interviews where the outcomes can impact licenses, livelihoods, and lives.We discuss why traditional pressure-based interview techniques often backfire, and how a trauma-informed, transparent, truth-focused approach leads to more reliable outcomes for both investigators and healthcare professionals.In this conversation, you'll learn:Why diversion interviews carry uniquely high emotional and professional riskHow presuming guilt undermines investigationsThe impact of fear, stress, and trauma on interview responsesHow to balance accountability with fairness and humanityWhat investigators, compliance teams, HR, and leaders should understand before conducting these interviewsThis episode puts Dave in the teacher's seat, offering practical guidance for anyone involved in diversion prevention, compliance, HR, pharmacy leadership, nursing leadership, or healthcare administration.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=dave_thompson

Should a nurse or a pharmacist lead a drug diversion program? It's a question that comes up often—and one that misses the bigger point.In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, we explore what truly matters in diversion program leadership beyond professional titles and credentials. The conversation was sparked by a real moment: a highly experienced diversion specialist questioning whether her nursing background caused others to doubt her qualifications to lead.I'm joined by four diversion mitigation leaders with different professional paths:Bethanie Gamble, pharmacy backgroundMary Nelson, RNAlecia Pittman, RNTogether, we talk candidly about credentials vs competence, the emotional and ethical weight of diversion oversight, and the skills that actually make someone effective in the lead role.In this episode, we discuss:The strengths nurses and pharmacists each bring to diversion leadershipWhy experience, judgment, and communication matter more than job titlesManaging conflict and disagreement with stakeholdersThe realities of leading high-stakes diversion programsWhether you work in diversion prevention, pharmacy leadership, nursing leadership, compliance, or patient safety, this conversation offers valuable perspective on what effective leadership really looks like.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=diversion_specialist_role

Propofol may not be federally classified as a controlled substance—but that doesn't mean it's low risk.In this Diversion Insights Quick Take from Rxpert Solutions, we explore why propofol remains one of the most challenging medications from a diversion prevention and security perspective. Despite its non-controlled status, propofol presents serious vulnerabilities related to storage, access, and waste disposal that healthcare facilities cannot afford to ignore.In this episode, we discuss:Why propofol's regulatory status creates a false sense of securityThe three U.S. states that classify propofol as a controlled substanceReal-world storage and waste challenges that increase diversion riskWhy every facility—regardless of state law—needs a clear propofol strategyShort, focused, and practical, this episode highlights how regulatory gray areas can hide some of the biggest risks in medication security.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=quick-take&utm_campaign=propofol

Propofol is one of the most vulnerable medications for diversion in healthcare — not because it lacks abuse potential, but because it lacks the regulatory oversight applied to controlled substances.In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, I'm joined by Michael T. Ring and Dale M. Pfrimmer to discuss their Mayo Clinic quality-improvement study published in Critical Care Nurse:“Propofol as a Drug of Diversion: Changing Disposal Practices to Reduce Risk.”Their work uncovered a major safety gap: before intervention, 44.1% of propofol bottles found in ICU waste bins were still full and accessible for diversion. After implementing activated carbon disposal pouches and specialized bottle-opening tools, that number dropped to zero.We explore:- The methodology behind their intervention- Overcoming education and workflow challenges- How environmental stewardship intersects with diversion prevention- Why their success led to system-wide adoption across all ICUs and the EDThis episode highlights how simple, practical changes can meaningfully reduce diversion risk and protect healthcare professionals — even for medications outside DEA scheduling.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=mike-ring

Controlled substance waste doesn't just impact budgets — it creates a significant and measurable burden on pharmacy teams, workflows, and staffing capacity.In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, we welcome back John Hertig and Les Louden to discuss their newest study:“Assessing Pharmacy Costs of Intravenous Push Controlled Substance Waste in Hospital-Based Areas: A Multi-Site Study”Published in the journal Pharmacy (2025).This study is the first to quantify the pharmacy workforce costs associated with IV push controlled substance waste. It builds on years of research from John and Les, offering one of the most complete pictures to date of how waste impacts hospitals operationally and financially.If you've followed their previous studies, this episode connects all the dots — revealing the true scope of waste and why it matters for every hospital in the U.S.Thanks to our sponsor: MIDAS Healthcare SolutionsLearn more about how MidasVIEW™ safeguards patient and caregiver safety while driving compliance in controlled substance waste management: https://midashs.com/More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

Anticipatory compounding of controlled substances may seem like a simple operational efficiency—but it sits in a tricky regulatory space where FDA and DEA expectations don't always align.In this Quick Take from Rxpert Solutions, we break down what hospital pharmacies need to know to stay compliant while maintaining safe and efficient sterile compounding practices.You'll learn:- How FDA and DEA interpretations differ- Why documentation and clear internal policies are essential- What your pharmacy must have in place before batching IVs- Practical guidance for directors, compliance officers, and sterile compounding teamsShort, focused, and actionable—this episode gives you the clarity you need to navigate this regulatory gray zone with confidence.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=quick_take&utm_campaign=anticipatory_compounding

What if the key to preventing drug diversion isn't more policies—but more trust?In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, I talk with Shealee Mitchell, M.Jur., BSN, RN, a diversion specialist who's transforming how healthcare organizations approach drug diversion prevention through a relationship-first model.With experience as a pharmacy tech, nurse, and Chief Experience Officer, Shealee explains why focusing on culture before compliance leads to stronger, more sustainable results.We discuss:- How building trust reduced missing medications- Why “face time” beats email in prevention- How collaboration with HR and legal strengthens accountability- The power of celebrating wins to reinforce positive cultureThis conversation challenges traditional compliance models and proves that culture—not fear—is the foundation of effective diversion prevention.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=shealee

Before launching your diversion monitoring software, it's crucial to make sure the foundation is strong.In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, I'm joined by Stacy Hershman, a former diversion analyst with experience across multiple healthcare specialties, who shares her unique insights on what truly makes diversion monitoring effective.We discuss:- Why groundwork matters more than technology- The risks of rushing into implementation without preparation- How to avoid meaningless alerts and staff frustration- Tips for new diversion analysts entering the fieldWhether you're starting or improving your diversion monitoring program, this episode will help you build a structure that actually prevents diversion—not just tracks it.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=hershman

What do Joint Commission surveyors really look for when assessing your diversion prevention program?In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, I'm joined by Marianne Sevcik, RN, MSN, of Partnership Consulting International LLC, and Meggan McGraw, MSN, CNS, RNC — both former surveyors for The Joint Commission — to share insider insights from years of conducting hospital and compliance surveys.We explore:- How surveyors evaluate diversion prevention program effectiveness- The red flags and key phrases that trigger deeper review- Balancing regulatory compliance with real-world practicality- How to respond when you disagree with survey findings- What surveyors think about emerging tools like AI-powered diversion monitoringWhether you're preparing for accreditation or refining your controlled substance diversion program, this episode gives you a rare surveyors' perspective on how to build programs that go beyond compliance—and truly protect patients, staff, and controlled substances.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=insights&utm_campaign=surveyor

In this Diversion Insights Quick Take from Rxpert Solutions, we spotlight an overlooked but critical issue in automated dispensing machine (ADM) monitoring — cancelled and null transactions.These entries may look harmless in your system reports, but they can be powerful indicators of potential diversion, medication tampering, or substitution schemes.In this short episode, you'll learn:Why auditors and compliance teams must pay closer attention to cancelled transactions How subtle data patterns can uncover diversion risks traditional monitoring might missPractical steps to improve ADM oversight and medication securityIf you're responsible for diversion monitoring, pharmacy auditing, or medication safety, this episode will help you recognize the warning signs others overlook.More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=quick_takes&utm_campaign=cancel_transactions

When does “poor practice” cross the line into suspicious activity that requires a formal investigation?In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, returning guest Denise Bruscino shares her expertise on one of the most critical decision points in diversion prevention programs: knowing when to act.We discuss:- Why dismissing red flags as simple mistakes can allow diversion to continue unchecked- How committees evaluate suspicious activity and decide when to escalate- Real-world examples of cases that appeared innocent but weren't- When drug testing becomes appropriate- How culture, staff relationships, and organizational bias affect investigationsThis conversation provides a decision-making framework that helps pharmacy leaders, compliance officers, and diversion teams strengthen oversight and protect both patients and controlled substances.Thanks to our sponsor: MIDAS Healthcare SolutionsLearn more about how MidasVIEW™ safeguards patient and caregiver safety while driving compliance in controlled substance waste management: ⁠https://midashs.com/⁠More from Rxpert Solutions: ⁠https://www.rxpert.solutions/

What does medication security look like in the high-stakes environment of the operating room?In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, anesthesiologist Dr. Max Feinstein offers a unique perspective we rarely hear—how controlled substance management and diversion prevention actually play out during surgery.Together, we explore:- The realities of chain of custody in the OR- How pharmacy policies translate to anesthesia practice- The balance between compliance requirements and real-time patient care- Why collaboration between pharmacy and anesthesia providers is essentialDr. Feinstein's frontline insights remind us that diversion prevention isn't just about compliance—it's about designing systems that protect patients, providers, and the integrity of care.Thanks to our sponsor: MIDAS Healthcare SolutionsLearn more about how MidasVIEW™ safeguards patient and caregiver safety while driving compliance in controlled substance waste management: https://midashs.com/More from Rxpert Solutions: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

Propofol—nicknamed “milk of amnesia”—isn't a controlled substance, but it poses real addiction and diversion risks. With large bottle sizes and limited storage options, hospitals face major challenges in keeping this medication secure.In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, I'm joined by Marianne Sevcik, a nurse with extensive Joint Commission experience and now a compliance consultant. Together, we explore:- Why propofol is such a gray area in regulation- What The Joint Commission actually expects from hospitals- Common violations involving high-risk medications- How to respond when leadership ignores critical safety concernsIf you've ever struggled with propofol security, diversion prevention, or Joint Commission compliance, this conversation delivers practical insights you can apply immediately.Thanks to our sponsor, MIDAS Healthcare SolutionsLearn more about V.I.E.W. Waste and Return System: https://midashs.com/Learn more: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

How can storytelling create healing and connection for nurses in recovery?In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, we welcome:Kristin Waite-Labott, BSN, RN, CARN, CPRC – Founder & President of WisPAN (Wisconsin Peer Alliances for Nurses)Jenny Klug, MN, RN – Vice President & Director of Social Media, WisPANTogether, they announce the launch of the Healing Tapestry Podcast, a safe space where nurses can:- Share personal recovery journeys- Find peer support without stigma- Build resilience and community- Empower wellness in nursing cultureKristin and Jenny share how lived experience and peer connection can transform recovery support and expand access for nurses everywhere. Listen to the Healing Tapestry Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/57XorqXfwOQisLJAVKZDdt?si=yAH_d_FmRNWdAB6eWQsOAQLearn more: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

We don't usually take time on this podcast to talk about our own company, but after getting so many questions about what Rxpert Solutions actually does, it's time for a dedicated episode.In this Quick Take, I walk through our four core services:Drug Diversion Risk Assessments – identifying vulnerabilities before they escalateDrug Diversion Monitoring as a Service (DMaaS) – our unique outsourced monitoring modelInterview Training & Performance – strengthening investigation skills and outcomesProgram Development – building sustainable diversion prevention programsWhat makes Rxpert Solutions different isn't just what we do—it's how we do it: blending best practices and security with real-world practicality, and keeping compassion at the center of accountability.Whether you're curious about outsourced diversion monitoring, improving investigation processes, or developing stronger prevention strategies, this episode gives you the answers.

How can a suspected diversion case become the spark for lasting innovation?In this episode of Rxpert Solutions, three healthcare leaders from a DC metro hospital share how they built a robust diversion program that goes beyond policies and procedures.Guests:Jen Raynor – Director of PharmacyJeri Yeman – Quality, Safety & Regulatory Compliance Manager & Medication Safety OfficerJason Ramos – Regulatory Compliance CoordinatorThey reveal how:Leadership buy-in was secured to support prevention effortsA real diversion case was used to refine monitoring algorithms in real timeEvolving roles in safety and compliance strengthened the programContinuous improvement became part of their cultureThis episode is essential for healthcare professionals, compliance teams, and leaders working to advance medication security and patient safety.Learn more: https://www.rxpert.solutions/

In this Quick Takes episode from Rxpert Solutions, we explore an often-overlooked question: Is it legally safe for healthcare professionals to share their recovery stories?After a healthcare professional in long-term recovery declined to be a guest due to fears of legal repercussions—despite completing their state's recovery process years ago—we take a closer look at the legal landscape of public disclosure.For more information on drug diversion mitigation and resources, visit https://www.rxpert.solutions/

In this Quick Take, I'm addressing a concerning trend I'm seeing across healthcare facilities - the practice of concluding diversion investigations based solely on software analytics and audit data, without ever speaking to the healthcare professional involved.Too many facilities are looking at their monitoring reports, conducting deep-dive audits of documentation and waste records, and then making a determination that unusual patterns are simply "practice issues" rather than potential diversion. But here's the problem: you can't possibly know that without having a conversation with the individual.This shortcut approach creates significant safety risks and misses opportunities to identify both actual diversion and legitimate practice concerns that need addressing. Every facility needs to evaluate their investigation process and ask themselves: who is making the decision about whether to interview staff, and what criteria are they using?The interview process doesn't have to be adversarial or make staff feel targeted. When done correctly, it's simply a professional conversation to understand the full picture behind the data. But skipping this critical step entirely? That's a gap that puts both patients and facilities at risk.

Welcome back to the show. Today we're diving into a critical but often overlooked aspect of drug diversion investigations - the role of infection prevention. While most facilities focus on the regulatory and criminal justice aspects of diversion cases, there's a vital public health component that frequently gets pushed to the sidelines until it's too late.My guest today is Michelle Nation, a nurse with extensive experience in infection prevention. Michelle has witnessed firsthand how the disconnect between diversion response teams and infection prevention departments can leave patients at risk and facilities scrambling to address preventable outbreaks. She's been advocating for a more integrated approach that brings infection prevention expertise to the table from day one of any diversion investigation.While we've all read about the serious cases documented on the CDC website where infection prevention ultimately played a crucial role, by then the damage was often already done. In this episode, we explore how facilities can bridge this gap proactively, what the patient notification process should look like, and why every diversion response team needs an infection preventionist at the table from the very beginning.

In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked issue of medical record falsification and its serious implications for healthcare facilities, professionals, and patients. My guest, Tracy Hunt, shares her expertise on this complex topic, examining how falsified documentation intersects with medication diversion, insurance fraud, and legal accountability.Tracy explores the statutory definitions of falsification, potential criminal charges, and the complications of bundled medication charges in billing systems. Our discussion covers discovery methods for identifying suspicious patterns, the investigation process when concerns arise, and what happens when cases are escalated.Whether you're a healthcare administrator, compliance officer, or clinical professional, this episode offers valuable insights into protecting your practice, your patients, and your career from the serious consequences of documentation fraud. Join us for this important conversation about maintaining integrity in healthcare documentation and billing practices.

Welcome to today's episode where we explore the nuanced world of investigative interviewing in healthcare settings. My guest is Denise Bruscino, the Chief Diversion Officer at Moffitt Cancer Center in Florida. With a unique combination of nursing experience in inpatient settings and specialized training in behavioral analysis, Denise brings a rare perspective to healthcare investigations—hence her apt self-description as a "unicorn" in her field.In this enlightening conversation, Denise shares her expertise on developing effective interviewing techniques, training others in the art of investigation, and the delicate balance between clinical knowledge and interview skills. We discuss the importance of flexibility during interviews, preparation strategies for managers, and practical advice for organizations building their own interview programs.Whether you're in healthcare, compliance, human resources, or any field that requires skilled interviewing, Denise's insights offer valuable guidance for conducting meaningful and effective investigations.

Welcome to today's episode where we dive deep into one of the most critical yet often misunderstood areas of healthcare compliance: corresponding responsibility. I'm joined by Michael Staples, a healthcare regulatory compliance expert whose fascinating journey from law enforcement detective to compliance specialist gives him a unique perspective on this complex topic.n our conversation, Mike highlights a troubling reality: regulatory agencies often fail to distinguish between innocent mistakes and criminal intent, leaving non-criminal healthcare professionals fighting their cases in court where juries must apply common sense to see the truth. He shares practical directives for both pharmacists and physicians to protect themselves while fulfilling their professional obligations.Whether you're a healthcare provider, pharmacist, or compliance officer, this episode offers clarity on navigating the complex landscape of corresponding responsibility. So stay tuned for this informative discussion that could help protect your practice and your patients.

In this Diversion Insights Quick Take, I examine an intriguing comment I heard recently while discussing missing medications with a client. New nurse hires from across the country consistently express surprise at how seriously this facility takes controlled substance management compared to their previous workplaces. Join me for this 5-minute discussion about what this reveals about the inconsistency in hospital protocols nationwide and why robust controlled substance oversight should be the standard, not the exception.

In today's podcast, I'm discussing a significant development in the healthcare compliance technology sector. Bluesight's recent acquisition of Protenus has created waves of concern among Protenus customers who now face an unexpected transition. While many were satisfied with their Protenus diversion software solutions, they're now being required to switch to Bluesight's platform. These customers are navigating negotiations with a new company while managing this mandated change. I'll share insights on why this matters, what customers are experiencing, and what options might be available moving forward in this rapidly consolidating industry.Listen in for a 5-minute exploration of this timely topic that's affecting healthcare compliance departments across the industry.