The DEA is responsible for curbing drug related crimes and prosecuting the offenders. Towards this end, it enforces various regulations on the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is charged with investigating all crimes related to illegal use of drugs. In this context, the federal agency not only attempts to restrain drug trafficking, but also keeps a check on the medical dispensing of such drugs that have been classified as controlled substances.
In fact, this is considered the root cause in most cases, and therefore, the DEA imposes a series of checks and balances on those who possess, prescribe, dispense, transport or manufacture the controlled substances.
It begins with DEA controlled substance licenses – every doctor, nurse or other provider has to first register themselves with the DEA and obtain a license for the same. Prescribing, dispensing or administering controlled substances without a license is deemed illegal and will lead to stringent prosecution.
In addition to this, all DEA registrants have to conform to a host of rules and regulations at all times. This covers everything from procurement and storage to recordkeeping and even disposal. They also have to use the prescribed forms for reporting various aspects of their operations to the DEA.
In fact, this is considered the root cause in most cases, and therefore, the DEA imposes a series of checks and balances on those who possess, prescribe, dispense, transport or manufacture the controlled substances.
It begins with DEA controlled substance licenses – every doctor, nurse or other provider has to first register themselves with the DEA and obtain a license for the same. Prescribing, dispensing or administering controlled substances without a license is deemed illegal and will lead to stringent prosecution.
In addition to this, all DEA registrants have to conform to a host of rules and regulations at all times. This covers everything from procurement and storage to recordkeeping and even disposal. They also have to use the prescribed forms for reporting various aspects of their operations to the DEA.
The DEA maintains a strong vigil on the registrants and conducts audits on a regular basis. It will also not hesitate to investigate suspicious activities, either of its own accord or those reported by patients, doctors and other people. Following are some of the red flags that always stay on their radar:
- Drug dealing - Healthcare professionals that have access to controlled substances may indulge in selling them illegally to earn profits.
- Drug diversion – Pharmacists, physicians and other providers may supply controlled substances on the illegal market to those who don’t need them for medical reasons.
- Prescription falsification – Providing fake/false prescriptions for controlled substances on the sly to others.
If the investigation uncovers a crime, it can lead to stiff penalties and other harsh consequences. Criminal prosecution can also be on the cards.
What if you get netted for no reason?
While violators are apprehended at various levels, it is not uncommon for innocent registrants who toe the line to get caught up in an unexpected investigation. While they may genuinely not be at fault, the finger of blame can swing in their direction due to an unintentional lapse in the operations.
This is why DEA registrants need a professional who can helm the DEA formalities and ensure that the hospital, clinic, pharmacy or other registered facility stays in compliance at all times. They will not only take care of the DEA forms for controlled substances and other regulations but also conduct mock audits to ensure that the staff know what to expect when the DEA officials land at their doors.
The Titan Group is one such established and reputed compliance service provider that can expertly deal with all the nitty-gritty’s while keeping inadvertent deterrence in check.
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