Worcester Doctor Agrees to Pay $ 115,000 Settlement to Resolve Allegations of Illegally Prescribing Controlled Opioid Substances | USAO-MA

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BOSTON – A Worcester doctor has agreed to resolve allegations that he inappropriately prescribed controlled opioid substances outside of the ordinary course of professional practice.

Edward Driscoll, MD, a physician who practiced at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, agreed to pay $ 115,000 to resolve allegations that he violated the civil remedy provisions of the Controlled Substances Act.

According to the settlement agreement, Dr. Driscoll admitted to prescribing nine patients with Schedule II controlled substances that were not part of the usual course of professional practice. Dr. Driscoll prescribed opioids for chronic pain without performing functional pain assessments or opioid risk assessments. He rarely ordered urine drug tests and did not have regular monthly office visits, despite prescribing patients monthly for opioids.

“We entrust physicians with the care of treating their patients appropriately and complying with DEA ​​prescribing regulations, especially in the midst of a destructive opioid epidemic,” the Acting United States Attorney said. , Nathaniel R. Mendell. “These drugs are controlled for a reason and failure to follow the rules endangers patient safety. We are committed to working with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to enforce compliance and ensure public safety from the dangers of improper prescribing. ”

“The DEA is committed to ensuring that all registrants comply with the required regulations, which are enforced through the Controlled Substances Act,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston. Division. “Failure to do so increases the potential for diversion and endangers public health and safety. The DEA is committed to working with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure compliance with these rules and regulations. “

During the investigation, Dr. Driscoll turned over his Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration number and, as part of the settlement, agreed that he would not look for a new DEA registration number.

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell and DEA SAC Boyle made the announcement today. Assistant to US Attorney Alexandra Brazier of Mendell’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit handled the case.

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