Episode 23 - Mastering Compliance: Insights with Retired DEA Agent Dennis Wichern

Smiling man in a suit speaking at a podium. Text reads "Episode 23: Mastering Compliance - DEA Insights and Clinic Regulations."

Explore key DEA compliance strategies with retired agent Dennis Wichern to effectively manage and safeguard your ketamine clinic against regulatory challenges.

In this episode, Sam welcomes Dennis Wichern, a retired DEA special agent who now runs Prescription Drug Consulting, to discuss various aspects of compliance and regulatory guidance essential for running a ketamine infusion clinic. 

Dennis shares his extensive background in federal law enforcement and provides valuable insights into the DEA's procedures for audits, record keeping, and security. 

The episode also covers the historical context of the DEA, the impact of telehealth on controlled substance regulations, and advice for clinicians on risk mitigation and best practices.


Friendly reminder, this podcast is for educational purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speaker and do not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with a professional before making decisions for your business or medical practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Understanding DEA Audits: Learn about what triggers a DEA visit and the focus areas of these audits.

  • Record Keeping Essentials: Discuss the critical elements of record keeping and how to avoid common pitfalls.

  • Advice for New Clinicians: Practical advice for clinicians new to the field, focusing on compliance and ethical practice.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or on your favorite podcast platform. Watch the discussion on YouTube here.

Episode 23 show notes:

  • 00:00 Teaser - When The DEA Visits You…

  • 00:22 Welcome to the Ketamine Startup Podcast

  • 00:35 Meet Dennis Wichern: DEA Special Agent Turned Consultant

  • 01:45 Dennis Wichern's Career Journey with the DEA

  • 03:13 Transition to Pharmaceutical Control and Consulting

  • 06:27 Understanding the DEA's Role and Regulations

  • 08:08 The Banking Model Metaphor for DEA Regulations

  • 12:29 Key Elements of Record Keeping and Security

  • 15:22 Risk and Penalties for Ketamine Clinics

  • 23:25 Red Flags and DEA Audits

  • 27:14 Free Ketamine Clinic Startup Checklist

  • 27:58 State-Level DEA Enforcement Variations

  • 31:25 Advice for Clinicians on Inventory Management

  • 33:31 Witnessing and Documentation in Small Clinics

  • 35:47 Online Ketamine Therapy and DEA Perspectives

  • 40:51 Political Influence on DEA Regulations

  • 44:20 Starting a Ketamine Clinic: Key Advice

  • 50:40 Rapid Fire Questions and Contact Information

  • 52:53 Closing remarks

    Thanks for listening!

Connect with Dennis:

LinkedIn

Prescription Drug Consulting Website

Email: dennis.wichern@prescriptiondrugconsulting.com

Phone: (312) 859-2430 (24/7)

Selected links and references:

Ryan Haight Act

This doctor prescribed ketamine from his home. DEA shut it down.

Missoula doctor settles alleged Controlled Substances Act recordkeeping violations for $85,000

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Episode 24 - 13 Best Practices for Ketamine Therapy Clinics

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Episode 22 - Opening a Ketamine Clinic: An Unconventional Path for Emergency Physicians