First professional year student Pharmacists' approaches to resolving drug diversion incidents in a community pharmacy simulation

Abstract

Introduction

Drug diversion, the illegal movement or misuse of controlled substances, is a significant public health concern. Pharmacists are crucial in preventing and managing drug diversion but may lack adequate training and confidence in addressing these incidents. This study aimed to evaluate first-year pharmacy students' approaches to resolving drug diversion scenarios using Kings' six models of criminal justice: Medical, Bureaucratic, Status Passage, Power, Due Process, and Crime Control models.

Methods

A skills-based role-playing activity was conducted from 2022 to 2024, where students confronted both internal (technician diverting medication) and external (patient with problematic prescriptions) diversion cases. A deductive thematic analysis using a convergent mixed methods approach was completed using reflections from the activity.

Results

Reflections from 327 students were thematically analyzed using Braun and Clarke's reflexive method, revealing the Bureaucratic model as the most common approach, followed by the Medical, Due Process, Status Passage, and Crime Control models. A “passive approach” theme also emerged, reflecting avoidance of conflict.

Conclusion

This study highlights discrepancies between students' public expressions and private reflections, suggesting discordance between societal expectations and personal beliefs in handling drug diversion. The findings suggest a need for enhanced educational strategies to equip future pharmacists with effective approaches to managing drug diversion in practice.