The diversion of pharmaceutical controlled substances throughout the United States continues to be a significant problem. Not only are pharmaceutical controlled substances diverted through robbery and thefts, patients are doctor shopping, and rogue practitioners are forging or writing illegitimate prescriptions. The Prescription Drug Diversion Conference is designed to create a forum for Tennessee physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, dentists, and veterinarians to learn about the opioid issue in Tennessee, identify and prevent diversion activity, and guidance on proper prescribing of opioids.

Effective July 1, 2014, all prescribers who hold a current DEA license and who prescribe controlled substances are required by the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners to complete a minimum of two hours of prescribing CME credit. A total of forty (40) CME credits are required for physician re-licensure. All credits must be earned in the two years prior to renewal. This course meets the State's prescribing CME requirement.

1. Describe the extent of the opioid crisis and prescription drug diversion in Tennessee.
2. Identify red flags of diversion by practitioners, staff/employees, and patients.
3. Evaluate the risk of prescription drug diversion in their practice and take effective measures to prevent it.
4. Explain the legal implications of drug diversion.
5. Explain the role of the Tennessee Health-Related Boards and the actions they can take in regards to drug diversion.
6. Describe the function of the Controlled Substance Monitoring Database and how to use it.
7. Discuss the Tennessee chronic pain guidelines and proper controlled substance prescribing practices.
8. Summarize the proper methods of disposal for controlled substances.

1. Describe the extent of the opioid crisis and prescription drug diversion in Tennessee.
2. Identify red flags of diversion by practitioners, staff/employees, and patients.
3. Evaluate the risk of prescription drug diversion in their practice and take effect measures to prevent it.
4. Explain the legal implication of drug diversion.
5. Explain the role of the Tennessee Health-Related Boards and the actions they can take in regards to drug diversion.
6. Describe the function of the Controlled Substance Monitoring Database and how to use it.
7. Discuss the Tennessee chronic pain guidelines and proper controlled substance prescribing practices.
8. Summarize the proper methods of disposal for controlled substances.

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint providership of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and The Department of Justice. Vanderbilt University Medical Center is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center designates this live activity for a maximum 6.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This educational activity received no commercial support.