A leaked B.C. Ministry of Health document reveals a significant portion of prescribed opioids are being diverted, with alternatives being trafficked domestically and internationally. The document, confirmed as authentic by Health Minister Josie Osborne, details an ongoing investigation targeting specific pharmacies suspected of offering incentives to clients. The report highlights a 20-fold increase in hydromorphone prescriptions for drug users in recent years and raises concerns about some community housing staff directing tenants to certain pharmacies. This revelation comes as Canada faces pressure from the U.S. to curb fentanyl trafficking.
VICTORIA — A recent B.C. Ministry of Health document says a"significant portion" of opioids prescribed by doctors and pharmacists are being diverted and that prescribed alternatives are being trafficked provincially, nationally and internationally.
Its authenticity has been confirmed by Health Minister Josie Osborne, who says it's"disappointing" that it was leaked and the investigation potentially compromised. It says some pharmacies are alleged to be"offering incentives to clients" with more than 60 pharmacies identified, and that some"community housing staff" require tenants to go to certain pharmacies for their prescriptions.
OPIOIDS DIVERSION TRAFFICKING INVESTIGATION PHARMACIES
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