Each year many who work in the medical profession are accused of prescription fraud. Many are innocent people caught up in illegal supply chains while trying to do their job.
Opioid addiction has reached epidemic proportions. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health found over 10 million people had misused prescription opioids during 2019. Whenever there is a demand for something, unscrupulous individuals will work out a way to supply that demand and make money. As a doctor or pharmacist, these criminals could take advantage of you and your access to prescription painkillers. You could become part of their supply chain without ever being aware of your role.
How could you unwittingly become involved in the supply of opioids?
There are many ways in which these gangs can target you. Here are some:
- They steal or copy your prescription pad: Law officials find excessive amounts of opioid prescriptions with your name and signature on them. They may assume you wrote them.
- They persuade others to get prescriptions from you: One of your patients lives with considerable pain. She tells you the painkillers you issue are not working, so you issue an alternative or a higher dose. Little do you know, the reason they do not work is she is not taking them. She is selling them to others.
- They bring their fake prescriptions to your store: You employ a new pharmacist. The criminal gangs work out your new employee does not ask as many questions as other pharmacists. They send numerous people with fake prescriptions to get drugs from your store.
If the authorities are investigating you for prescription fraud, seek legal help. You need to protect your freedom and your reputation.