Licensees should be on alert for a scam that has been targeting Ohio healthcare prescribers.
Scammers have been calling and faxing prescribers and pharmacists saying they are being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and their DEA registration will be revoked or suspended or they will be arrested if they do not agree to pay a fine immediately via phone or fax.
Additionally, individuals posing as State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy (SOBP) or State Medical Board of Ohio (SMBO) agents are also contacting prescribers and pharmacists by phone and/or fax in an attempt to obtain payment to resolve an alleged disciplinary matter.
If the SOBP or the SMBO is conducting an investigation and if a prescriber faces action against their license, they will receive an official notice of opportunity for a hearing via certified mail or by personal service.
If you are unsure of whether the individual claiming to be an SOBP or SMBO agent or inspector is legitimate, you may call the SOBP office at 614.466.4143 and ask to speak to the Compliance and Enforcement Department.
The DEA is also aware of the extortion scam and has published more information on its website, including how to notify the DEA.