Controlled substances (CS) diversion in health systems can lead to serious patient safety issues, harm to the diverter, and significant liability risk to the organization. Diversion driven by addiction puts patients at risk of harm, including inadequate relief of pain, inaccurate documentation of their care in the medical record, exposure to infectious diseases from contaminated needles and drugs, and impaired healthcare worker (HCW) performance. In addition to patient harm, there are regulatory and legal risks to the organization, including potential inappropriate billing and liability for resulting damages, and decreased community confidence in the healthcare system. The role of the pharmacy diversion coordinator is to work collaboratively within the system-wide organization to reduce the opportunity for diversion as well as regulatory and legal risks through appropriate auditing, data collection, and continuous process improvement.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in nursing or applicable health care program Registered Nurse (RN) License Registered Pharmacy Technician License (must be obtained upon hire) Minimum of five (5) years of experience in the health care setting with experience in critical care, procedural areas preferred

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s degree ASHP and/or PTCB Controlled Substance Diversion Prevention certificate Experience in drug diversion prevention processes Strong supervisory skills Previous experience in trending and analyzing data Proficient computer skills, including word processing and spreadsheet applications Thorough understanding of medication dispensing technology Knowledge and understanding of federal and state medication handling and controlled substances Regulations Familiarity with drug diversion-related standards and regulatory requirements, including DNV’s medication management standards; DEA, EPA, CDC, and FDA regulations; and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ relevant conditions of participation Excellent public speaking and teaching abilities Ability to facilitate change processes and collaborate with diverse multidisciplinary teams Strong interpersonal, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to interact with all levels of the organization including administration, medical staff and front line staff Ability and willingness to work at odd hours and on short notice Ability to work independently with minimal supervision Training in interviewing techniques