A former nurse at a Birmingham-area nursing home has been convicted of theft after stealing opioid tablets intended for residents, according to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall. This case highlights the ongoing challenges nursing homes face in preventing drug diversion and ensuring resident safety.
Dozier Micah Blanks, 39, was responsible for medication distribution at the facility. An investigation began last July after a fellow nurse discovered missing hydrocodone, according to the Attorney General’s Office. The facility subsequently terminated Blanks, and the case was referred to the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
The investigation revealed that Blanks had stolen over 100 hydrocodone tablets during a two-month period. He pleaded guilty to theft of property in the second degree and received a 15-month suspended sentence from Judge William A. Bell Jr.
“Stealing medication intended for vulnerable patients is a serious betrayal of trust, and my office will not tolerate it,” stated Attorney General Marshall. “This conviction sends a clear message that those who exploit their positions to divert opioids for personal use will be held accountable. I commend the diligent work of our Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in bringing this case to justice and ensuring the integrity of Alabama’s healthcare system.”
This incident underscores a critical issue within the nursing home industry. A 2020 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association found that “Diversion of controlled substances in nursing homes is a significant problem, with an estimated prevalence of 10% to 20%.” This statistic highlights the vulnerability of residents and the need for robust preventative measures.
The case also brings to light the importance of vigilance among nursing home staff. The initial discovery of the missing hydrocodone by a fellow nurse demonstrates the crucial role of internal checks and balances in detecting and preventing drug diversion. Nursing homes are increasingly implementing strategies such as enhanced surveillance, stricter inventory control, and regular staff training to combat this problem. This incident in Birmingham serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for these measures to protect vulnerable residents and maintain the integrity of the healthcare system.