Government Update On Pharmacy Investigations, Prescribed Alternatives

The Province says it is taking action to prevent the diversion of prescribed opioids and hold “bad actors” accountable for putting people and communities at risk.

The Prescribed Alternatives Program is meant to separate people at the highest risk of overdose from toxic street drugs.

It is one part of the Province’s work to address the toxic drug crisis, in addition to what it says is the expansion of treatment and recovery services, early intervention and prevention, supportive housing and more.

The Prescribed Alternatives Program is being revised to require that the consumption of all prescribed alternatives must be witnessed by health professionals, ensuring they are consumed by their intended recipient.

The Ministry of Health’s Special Investigative Unit, alongside law enforcement and the College of Pharmacists, has been investigating pharmacies suspected of engaging in illegal activities, including misusing fee-for-service payments to offer incentives to attract patients.

So far, the Ministry has received allegations against more than 60 pharmacies.

The Province says that in cases where wrongdoing is confirmed, it will ensure that a pharmacy’s licence is suspended or cancelled, made ineligible to bill PharmaCare and referred to law enforcement if appropriate.

BC says it is also working to take action to reduce the over-prescribing of opioids generally by health-care providers.

“The overwhelming majority of pharmacies and prescribers follow the rules, but it is unacceptable that bad actors are exploiting the health-care system and putting communities at risk,” Minister of Health Josie Osborne said.

“We are working with law enforcement to stop illegal activity and ensure pharmacies operate in the best interests of patients and public safety.”

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.