PHILADELPHIA, PA — Professional Pharmacy & Convalescent Products, Ltd., based in Pottstown, has agreed to settle allegations that it improperly dispensed opioids and other controlled substances. The settlement, announced by U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero, includes a payment of $150,000 and follows the pharmacy’s surrender of its DEA registration.
The Controlled Substances Act mandates that pharmacies dispense controlled substances only with a valid prescription. Such prescriptions must be issued for legitimate medical purposes. This law aims to control the distribution of drugs like oxycodone, an opioid. From June 1, 2018, to March 4, 2024, Professional Pharmacy allegedly dispensed controlled substances without adhering to these regulations. The pharmacy also allegedly submitted false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for these drugs.
“Federal law imposes obligations on pharmacies like Professional to only dispense controlled substances when appropriate,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “This law is critical in protecting our community from the dangers of the opioid epidemic.”
Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Philadelphia Field Division, criticized the pharmacy’s behavior. “Professional Pharmacy exhibited a continued disregard of their obligations under the Controlled Substances Act by illegally dispensing powerful controlled substances like oxycodone over a several year period,” he said.
Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, emphasized the pharmacy’s responsibility. “Pharmacies are responsible for all claims they submit to Medicare and Medicaid,” she said.
The case was investigated by the DEA and HHS-OIG. The civil investigation and settlement were handled by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony D. Scicchitano and Auditors Denis Cooke and Dawn Wiggins.
The settlement addresses allegations, and there has been no determination of liability. This resolution aims to ensure that pharmacies comply with laws designed to prevent the misuse of controlled substances.
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