A leaked audit has sparked significant concern regarding the management of British Columbia’s so-called “safe supply” opioid program, highlighting issues with the diversion of prescribed opioids towards illegal distribution.
The audit reveals that between 2022 and 2024, over 22.4 million doses of opioids were prescribed to approximately 5,000 clients. However, there are allegations that some of these prescriptions have been diverted into the black market.
First released by the B.C. Conservatives, the document suggests that the government was aware a number of these opioids did not reach their intended recipients, with some quantities allegedly being trafficked at various levels within the community.
This has raised alarms about the effectiveness and security of the program designed to reduce harm among drug users.
Further scrutiny falls on more than 60 pharmacies accused of incentivizing doctors and patients to increase the volume of prescriptions, potentially to boost dispensing fees. These practices, according to the audit, might be contributing to the diversion of drugs into illegal markets.
In response to these findings, the B.C. Ministry of Health has initiated an investigation. Health Minister Josie Osborne has confirmed the probe, although has not committed to ending the “safe supply” program which the BC NDP pioneered.
Law enforcement agencies are reportedly preparing to target specific pharmacies implicated in these activities.
The B.C. Pharmacy Association has publicly condemned any illegal activities, stating their commitment to enhancing training and oversight to prevent such occurrences
Critics of the “safe supply” program argue that it inadvertently fuels addiction and supports organized crime. There have been calls for a public inquiry and for new leadership within public health to address these systemic issues including by B.C. Conservative MLA Elenore Sturko.
“No doubt that the NDP government is responsible for fuelling addiction, deaths, enriching organized crime, and facilitating international drug trafficking,” said Sturko in a statement.
