Harney District Hospital (HDH) recently became aware that a few vials of pain medication in the emergency department were tampered with. Upon discovery of this issue, HDH enlisted the assistance of the local police department to help with the investigation. Ultimately, the investigation resulted in the arrest and termination of a temporary-staffing-agency employee.

HDH sent letters to all of the patients who may have been impacted. These patients were offered an opportunity to meet with a Family Care clinic provider, at no cost, to relieve any resulting fears or concerns. HDH does not believe any patients sustained harm to their overall health.

In order to provide the best care possible to patients, HDH will continue to uphold its obligation to be transparent and disclose any actual or potential issues that may impact care outcomes. Controls and surveillance of medications were increased to minimize the risk of this happening again in the future. HDH is honored to serve its patients and would like to thank everyone who chooses to partner with the district for their healthcare.