What must a pharmacist do if they suspect a drug diversion in their pharmacy?

When a pharmacist suspects drug diversion, it is critical for them to report their suspicions to the Michigan Board of Pharmacy. This step is vital because the Board is responsible for overseeing the practice of pharmacy in the state and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations regarding controlled substances. Reporting allows for a thorough investigation, protecting the integrity of the pharmacy and safeguarding patients from potential harm due to misappropriated medications.

While conducting an internal audit may seem like a logical step to gather more information before making a report, the ethical and legal obligation is primarily to ensure that any suspicions of diversion are communicated to the appropriate regulatory body for further action. Ignoring the suspicion could lead to continued diversion and potential safety risks for patients, while notifying the patients involved might not be feasible or appropriate without further investigation. Therefore, the responsibility to the public and the profession is best met through reporting these concerns to the Board.