B.C. investigating significant diversion prescribed opioids [Video]

A “significant portion” of opioids prescribed by doctors and pharmacists in British Columbia are being diverted, and prescribed alternatives are being trafficked provincially, nationally and internationally, a Ministry of Health document says.

The leaked briefing that was distributed by the Opposition B.C. Conservatives also revealed the ministry has been conducting an investigation into an alleged scheme involving “incentives” paid by dozens of pharmacies to patients, doctors and housing providers.

Next steps will include targeting of “specific pharmacies” by law enforcement agencies, it says.

B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne confirmed the internal briefing’s authenticity on Wednesday and told reporters in a virtual meeting that it was “disappointing” it was leaked and the investigation potentially compromised.

“I want to acknowledge that we know that this is happening. These allegations are here. There’s absolutely no denial of it. There’s no diminishing of it, and there should be no acceptance of it. That’s why …