In-Hospital Drug Diversion

Course overview

Drug diversion doesn't just happen "somewhere else" it can happen in your own hospital. In Part 3 of the controlled substance series, we tackle one of the most difficult and sensitive topics in veterinary medicine, in-hospital drug diversion. This session will help you recognize the warning signs, understand your responsibilities, and respond with clarity and compassion. We'll begin by identifying general red flags and monitoring strategies, illustrated through a case involving two veterinary technicians. From there, we'll explore the role of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment programs, how they intersect with licensing boards, and how to navigate referrals when a team member needs help. Finally, we'll walk through the critical steps to take when diversion is discovered, including reporting to law enforcement, the DEA, and state boards, while also addressing the impact on team morale and how to move forward constructively.