B.C. investigates ‘significant’ prescribed drug diversion, including international trafficking [Video]

An Opposition critic is calling for an inquiry into B.C.’s safer supply drug program after it emerged that the province is investigating the diversion of opioids prescribed by doctors and pharmacists.

A recent B.C. Ministry of Health document says a “significant portion” of prescribed opioids is being diverted and that prescribed alternatives are being trafficked provincially, nationally and internationally.

The leaked briefing that was distributed by the Opposition B.C. Conservatives also says the ministry has been conducting an investigation, with next steps to include targeting of “specific pharmacies” by law enforcement agencies.

Elenore Sturko, the Conservative public safety critic, said the Opposition had been raising the alarm on the potential diversion of prescribed opioids for months, and she wants a public inquiry into the program.

WATCH | Some prescription opioids ending up in criminal hands, document shows: Leaked Ministry of Health documents released by the B.C. Conservatives show that government …