Palomar Health has reached a settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pay $250,000 to resolve allegations of fentanyl diversion at its facility in Escondido. The health care system came under investigation after one of its employees was suspected of diverting controlled substances, leading to a government investigation.
The investigation found that “numerous vials” of fentanyl were diverted from automated medication dispensing machines at Palomar’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab in Escondido over a five-month period. Additionally, it was discovered that unused fentanyl was not properly disposed of.
Palomar Health has agreed to the settlement without admitting any liability. Representatives from the health system did not provide immediate comment on the settlement. As part of the agreement, Palomar Health will increase security measures and provide specialized training on the proper handling of controlled substances.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office stated that the settlement includes the payment of $250,000 and implementation of security enhancements and training programs. This settlement marks the resolution of allegations related to fentanyl diversion at Palomar’s facility in Escondido.
