Using Drug Diversion Detection Software for Charge Capture
In previous blogs I have reviewed the various drug diversion detection software products. We have talked about how those products can assist a facility in monitoring for possible drug diversion. Drug diversion is the act of diverting a prescription drug from its originally intended path. This diversion can take place anywhere along the medication pathway from manufacturer to patient. When referring to drug diversion, we most likely think about controlled substances, which usually goes hand in hand with an addicted healthcare worker. While this type of drug diversion can ultimately lead to the greatest safety risk, a facility can experience a large financial risk when it comes to drug diversion involving high cost medications. Some medications have high street value, so theft of these meds could/should be added to the list of medications monitored with the aid of software.
Financial loss to the facility either due to intentional diversion of high cost meds or due to repeated loss of charge capture can add up quickly. Diversion monitoring software programs can assist a facility in monitoring for lost charges. Lost charges may be a result of poor processes or poor charting compliance. Keep an eye on inventory and close the loop on removals and charting of administration if the charging is based on administration. Does your facility employ any manual charting in the OR or procedural rooms? How complete are those manual charges?
If you are a Pharmacy Director who wants a drug diversion monitoring software product but you are not having success in getting approval for the product to monitor diversion, consider a return on investment if the product was used to monitor for lost charges or theft of high cost meds. Perhaps your leadership would be more inclined to approve the purchase for what they may consider a more tangible charge capture issue.
Fit no stereotypes. Don’t chase the latest management fads. The situation dictates which approach best accomplishes the team’s mission. -Colin Powell
