Radiologist agrees to pay six-figure sum for violating Controlled Substances Act

A radiologist in Sacramento, California, has agreed to pay a six-figure fine for failing to comply with regulations related to controlled substances. 

Philip Yen, MD, a radiologist employed by Sutter Medical Group, served as a registrant of the Drug Enforcement Agency from 2018 to 2024 at Capitol Pavilion, where imaging services were offered by the organization. As a DEA registrant, Yen was responsible for overseeing the maintenance, distribution and documentation of controlled substances coming through the organization. 

However, Acting United States Attorney Michele Beckwith says that Yen failed to properly fulfill these responsibilities. A 2022 inspection of the controlled substance records at Capitol Pavilion revealed numerous “recordkeeping violations,” according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office. Yen is accused of committing 16 violations of the Controlled Substance Act, ranging from improperly documenting the dispensing of controlled substances, failing to conduct regular inventory checks, and not implementing appropriate safeguards to prevent theft. 

Investigators also determined Yen had not been adequately trained to take on the role of a DEA registrant, and that the employees of Sutter Health were aware of the potential risk for diversion of controlled substances under his watch. 

“Healthcare facilities and their employees are entrusted to handle dangerous drugs with care,” Beckwith said in an announcement. “Compliance with the [Controlled Substance Act] and its recordkeeping requirements is critical to preventing diversion and protecting the public.” 

“Controlled substance recordkeeping requirements are an essential line of defense against prescription drug diversion. Every dose must be accounted for to prevent misuse and save lives,” added DEA Special Agent in Charge Bob P. Beris. “The DEA will continue to pursue healthcare providers who are not in compliance with mandatory regulations.” 

Yen has agreed to pay the United States $125,000 to resolve the allegations.