South Florida has been called the “national epicenter” for the illegal dispensing of prescription drugs. Law enforcement officials have targeted South Florida for quite some time, with February 23 being no exception. On February 23, law enforcement officials and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) agents raided six pain clinics accused of illegally dispensing prescription drugs, arresting 22 people–five of who were doctors.
While most pain physicians do not conduct pill mills, because of the few that do, all pain physicians are subject to increased scrutiny. As such, it is important for well-intentioned pain management physicians to proactively protect themselves. For example, it is important to carefully review internal documentation practices; review any applicable state law or guidance; and establish patient narcotics agreements and consistently monitor and enforce them.
For more information, please visit our Anesthesia and Pain specialty page or contact Abby Pendleton, Esq. at (248) 996-8510 or (212) 734-0128, visit our Healthcare Litigation specialty page or contact Robert S. Iwrey, Esq. at (248) 996-8510 or (212) 734-0128 or visit the HLP website.