Drug diversion is a challenge that every healthcare organization faces ... But now, with one of the most robust diversion prevention programs in the region, we’ve made it harder than ever for such incidents to go undetected and undeterred.
Joseph L. Perras, MD, President and CEO of Cheshire Medical CenterAs President and CEO, I believe it’s important that we not only care for you when you’re in our hospital, but that we also communicate openly with you when questions arise about how we keep our patients and employees safe.
You may be aware of a recent case involving an employee who diverted controlled substances while working here. We understand this may be concerning, but I want you to know that when a situation like this occurs we take it very seriously and have strict protocols in place to swiftly intervene, investigate and alert the authorities.
Cheshire’s Drug Diversion Prevention, Detection and Response Program is a comprehensive system of safeguards led by a dedicated specialist, set up to quickly identify and mitigate any issues as soon as an incident is detected. In this case, I am proud to say we acted decisively and responsibly, and I commend our supervisors and team members who performed admirably in following the procedures we have in place. The individual in question is no longer employed at Cheshire.
In fact, in recognition of the structures and procedures we’ve built over the past few years, the New Hampshire Board of Pharmacy recently lifted certain temporary restrictions and monitoring requirements that were enforced under a 2022 settlement agreement. The Board commended us on our good-faith efforts and the effectiveness of our program. Additionally, after the recent case of diversion came to light, The Joint Commission – a major independent accrediting body – initiated an unannounced site survey in late March, found no issues with Cheshire’s diversion program and maintained our accreditation. Moreover, they determined our diversion policies and procedures are excellent.
Drug diversion is a challenge that every healthcare organization faces. Even with the strongest safeguards in place, no organization can guarantee that drug diversion will not occur. But now, with one of the most robust diversion prevention programs in the region, we’ve made it harder than ever for such incidents to go undetected and undeterred.
I share all of this with you because you – our community – deserve transparency. You trust us with your care, and we take that trust seriously. Our goal is always to ensure a safe healing environment for every patient, visitor and Cheshire team member who walks through our doors.
We are your hospital, I am its leader, and I assure you that we are here to listen, to serve and to keep earning your trust every day. And that is exactly what we will continue to do.
Thank you for trusting us with your care.
Sincerely,
Joseph L. Perras, MD
President & CEO
Cheshire Medical Center