Reporting Drug Diversion in a Healthcare Setting to the Division of Professions and Occupations The Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) wants law enforcement to know that we take drug diversion by licensed healthcare professionals seriously, and that the licensing boards and programs in the Division can take swift action to protect patients, including suspension of a license. As a Division we would like to work with you, law enforcement, in taking swift licensing action to protect patients while also ensuring that we do not compromise any criminal investigation that may be taking place. The Division oversees licensing and enforcement for 250,000 healthcare practitioners in the state (see back for list of regulated healthcare professions).
Let DPO know!! When you come across investigations that involve suspect drug diversion in a healthcare facility, let DPO know! The easiest way to notify the Division is by filing a complaint with us. Visit askDORA.colorado.gov and click on “File a Complaint.” Anyone may file a complaint including the patient, family member, employer, colleague, or other person. Examples of when to file a complaint: ● A nurse refusing to submit to a drug test ordered by his/her employer; ● A surgical assistant allowed to resign for suspected drug diversion in lieu of termination; ● A respiratory therapist found working under the influence; ● Syringes, pills, or other controlled substances found on a licensee’s person or personal property that were not prescribed to that person; ● A physician that requires a student or other employee to write him/her a prescription; and ● A report of theft of narcotics received from a hospital or other healthcare facility.
Helpful Materials to Include with the Complaint from Law Enforcement: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Copies of any police reports; Copies of arrest affidavits or other legal documentation; Copies of witness statements; and Other information typically useful to your investigation process.
Please note that if you choose to submit a complaint at the beginning of a police investigation, we will work with you to ensure that your case (if applicable) remains solid and is not compromised.
DPO Contact Information To file a complaint: Visit askDORA.colorado.gov and click on “File a Complaint.” For questions or comments contact: Director of Enforcement‐Investigations‐‐Kevin (
[email protected] or 303.894.7708)
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Healthcare Practitioners Regulated by the Division
Acupuncturists
Naturopathic Doctors
Respiratory Therapists
Addiction Counselors
Nurses and Nurse Aides
Social Workers
Athletic Trainers
Nursing Home Administrators
Speech‐Language Pathologists
Audiologists
Occupational Therapists
Surgical Assistants & Surgical Technologists
Chiropractors
Optometrists
Veterinarians
Dentists and Hygienists
Pharmacists
Direct‐Entry Midwives
Physical Therapists
Hearing Aid Providers
Podiatrists
Marriage & Family Therapists
Professional Counselors
Massage Therapists
Psychologists
Physicians and PAs
Registered Psychotherapists
