Optimizing Controlled Substance Waste: Research Insights from the Field

When it comes to controlled substance management in healthcare facilities, waste optimization plays a crucial role in both cost savings and diversion prevention. In this episode of Drug Diversion Insights, we dive deep into groundbreaking research on optimizing controlled substance waste with two innovative pharmacists.Tyler Cramer, an inpatient clinical pharmacist at Boone Health in Missouri, shares insights from his AJHP-published research on maximizing opioid stewardship through fentanyl vial size optimization. Joining him is Kayla Sewell, a PGY2 Pharmacy Informatics Resident at Lifepoint, who recently presented her analysis of financial and workforce impacts of controlled substance waste at IHFDA.Our guests explore:The catalysts behind their research initiativesDifferent approaches to studying waste optimizationKey findings and their practical implicationsImplementation strategies and lessons learnedIntegration of waste optimization into diversion prevention programsTheir research provides valuable insights for healthcare facilities looking to enhance both fiscal responsibility and diversion prevention through waste management strategies.Whether you're a pharmacy leader, compliance officer, or healthcare administrator, this discussion offers practical takeaways for optimizing your controlled substance management program.