(1159) Training Students to Be Controlled Substances Diversion Detectives

Objectives: 1. Assess student understanding of drug diversion methods in pharmacy practice.
2. Discuss and apply PMP and ARCOS analysis to determine patterns of drug diversion.
3. Identify applicable laws and rules associated with controlled substances.
4. Assess student attitudes towards Substance Use Disorder (SUD), Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) before and after course completion.

Methods: First through third year Doctor of Pharmacy Students were enrolled in an elective course in evaluating violations, participating in investigations and enforcement efforts regarding controlled substances diversion. Student knowledge was evaluated at the beginning and end of the course. Course performance was based on student analysis of data and evidence, providing an expert opinion based on the analysis, and testimony in a simulated hearing. Student perspective regarding drug diversion, opioid and substance use disorders was evaluated using a semi-structured interview and participation in a pre- and post-course survey.

Results: Student knowledge regarding drug diversion was limited prior to taking the course. Student understanding of drug diversion was through information they read or saw in the media. At the end of the course, students were able to identify types of violations of federal and state-controlled substances laws and rules, identification of “red flags” and the pharmacist’s responsibility, methods and analysis of drug diversion cases, and the pharmacist’s role in enforcement. As expected, students rated their knowledge of drug diversion as low prior to the course and higher at the end. Student opinion regarding opioid (OUD) and substance use disorders (SUD) was perceived as judgmental prior to the course and empathetic at the conclusion. Students remarked understanding how and why individuals develop OUD and SUD was biased prior to evaluating diversion data as a pharmacist.

Conclusions: Student understanding of the controlled substances laws and rules is necessary for licensure and practice. Participation in the drug diversion elective course increased student knowledge on the use of controlled substances, analysis of data, and utilization of their expertise to assist with diversion prevention. In addition, dispelling myths associated with OUD and SUD enhanced student understanding regarding these disorders and will be instrumental in their provision of patient care.