An Adelaide Hills aged care facility has become the focus of multiple investigations following the unexplained disappearance of opioid medication. The incident has prompted state and federal authorities to scrutinise the facility’s operations, raising questions about security and compliance in handling controlled substances.
The Bene St Pauls residential facility in Hahndorf reported that 100ml of OxyNorm, a liquid opioid medication containing oxycodone, went missing during a routine audit in December. Oxycodone is a Schedule 8 drug, which means it is tightly regulated due to its potential for misuse and addiction, despite its recognised role in managing severe pain.
The disappearance of the medication has led to investigations by SA Police, the South Australian Department of Health’s Drugs of Dependence Unit, and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). However, these investigations have so far yielded no definitive answers.
A spokeswoman for the facility confirmed that police investigations found no evidence of theft. Staff members were interviewed, but the lack of security cameras around the designated drug storage area has left authorities with limited information.
“In accordance with regulations, the missing medication was immediately reported to SA Health, AHPRA, and the police,” the spokeswoman said. “While fully compliant with regulatory requirements for the storage of medications, we have taken the opportunity to review and reinforce our practices.”
Although the centre has implemented measures to strengthen security following the incident, it remains unclear how or when the medication disappeared. The facility, which provides care to 80 residents, has not disclosed whether residents or their families have been informed of the situation.
The incident highlights the critical importance of strict adherence to regulations governing Schedule 8 drugs. These medications, which include opioids like oxycodone and morphine, are essential for managing severe pain but carry significant risks if mishandled.
Healthcare facilities are required to maintain robust systems for the prescription, storage, and administration of such medications. Any discrepancies must be reported promptly to relevant authorities.
Dr Chris Lease, acting chief public health officer, commended the facility for following the appropriate notification process. “The home followed the proper procedure in notifying SA Health and SA Police,” he said, adding that there would be no further action from SA Health at this time.
The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of medication management in aged care facilities. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission emphasised that providers must have robust systems in place to ensure the safe handling of medications.
“Where we find that a provider isn’t meeting their obligations, we will take action to hold them to account,” a spokesperson said.
Bene St Pauls, operated by the Italian Benevolent Foundation, offers a range of care services, including residential, dementia, palliative, and respite care. The foundation has reiterated its commitment to meeting regulatory standards and ensuring the wellbeing of its residents.
While the investigations remain ongoing, the disappearance of these painkillers serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in balancing accessibility to essential medications with stringent security measures. The aged care sector will undoubtedly face increased scrutiny as it works to prevent similar incidents in the future.
