Preventing Drug Diversion in Hospital-Owned Retail Pharmacies

Hospital-owned retail pharmacies are designed to support care continuity, often operating within or near hospitals and handling high volumes of controlled substances under their own DEA registration. Many lack the automation and monitoring tools used in inpatient settings. Hospital pharmacy leaders may also be less familiar with the unique workflows and risks in retail operations, resulting in less robust diversion prevention. As the DEA increasingly audits registrants, retail pharmacies, and health systems, organizations must ensure strong oversight across all settings. This white paper explores the risks and operational challenges of controlled substance management in HRPs and outlines practical steps to strengthen monitoring, accountability, and compliance – ultimately helping protect patients, staff, and the organization.