Halting the illegal sale of prescription medications in Los Angeles County.
The illegal sale of prescription medications by unlicensed vendors is a widespread practice in Los Angeles County. Many members of ethnic and particularly Latino communities turn to unlicensed vendors because of financial and cultural reasons and/or a lack of access to the U.S. health care system. In response, Los Angeles County Department of Health Services developed a two-part effort to curb the illegal sale of pharmaceuticals. Dramatically increased law enforcement resulted in 280 investigations, 121 arrests, and the confiscation of $4-$4.5 million worth of illegal pharmaceuticals during the first 20 months. The department also has begun outreach efforts to educate those communities most affected by these practices.
Fielding
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Los Angeles County, Department of Health Services, California, USA.
Hamai
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Hassakis
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PC
Ashton
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D
Tye
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D003415:Crime / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011307:Drug Prescriptions; D004335:Drug and Narcotic Control; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D015141:Los Angeles; D011635:Public Health Administration