This is my final post in my series regarding complaints against pharmacists regarding drug use or abuse. My last post regarded resolution of complaints to the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy (the Board) involving voluntary drug treatment programs. The series covered all of the following topics:
- Addiction and drug abuse leading to discipline
- ADA protection afforded those suffering from addiction
- Resolving your disciplinary matter with the Board and seeking treatment
I understand that facing an accusation of drug use or abuse can be frightening and embarrassing as well as a danger to your livelihood. It is important to get an early start on addressing the complaints, whether or not you believe they are valid. This can aid in a swift resolution and help you get back to your business as quickly as possible. If you are suffering from drug abuse or addiction, you can face disciplinary action by the board whether or not you accessed the drugs through your pharmacy. You may also face a complaint whether or not your drug use impacted your job performance.
A compliance officer from the Board will contact the party who filed the complaint and may thereafter contact you. The officer will contact the pharmacy you work for as well as any other witnesses implicated in the complaint. It is imperative that you discuss your license with an experienced Arizona licensing attorney before speaking to the compliance officer investigating your matter.
Once the compliance officer concludes his or her investigation the officer will submit a written report to the Deputy Director of the Board. The Deputy Director does his or her own research and then submits the results to the Rule Committee. That committee makes the recommendation as to the disposal of the complaint. It may be dismissed, or there are a variety of other results ranging from an advisory letter to an administrative hearing wherein the licensee is called to explain his or her conduct. It may be that before such a hearing a lawyer can facilitate a consent agreement with the board that may involve drug rehabilitation. It is in your best interest to retain counsel with experience in Arizona licensing law and local rehabilitation programs.
I understand that your license is a matter of pride and your primary means of support. As an experienced Arizona licensing attorney, I can help you navigate the process and protect your professional means of support. Contact my office today for more information. In addition to Phoenix, I represent those in other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. I also assist Pima County residents in Tucson.
