Audits of drug programs for California healthcare providers sought

In light of widespread failings in a California-run treatment program for substance-abusing doctors, a California senator is calling for audits of similar programs for nurses, pharmacists and other health professionals. The Medical Board of California abolished its confidential addiction program in 2007 after five audits found that it was not working. Sen. Mark Ridley-Thomas (D-Los Angeles) said he was troubled that reviews had never been conducted on the seven other healthcare boards that offer so-called diversion programs.