Legacy of Leadership: John Burke's Journey with IHFDA
Episode Overview
John Burke reflects on his extensive career in law enforcement. Discussion on the founding and growth of IHFDA. Challenges faced in drug diversion prevention within healthcare facilities. Personal stories from John's time as a police officer. John's future plans post-retirement and his legacy.
I always wanted to be a cop...and I was thrilled to death to be part of it.
In this episode of 'Drug Diversion Insights with Terri Vidals', the spotlight is on John Burke, the Executive Director of the International Health Facility Diversion Association (IHFDA). With a career spanning decades in law enforcement and drug diversion prevention, John shares his journey from a police cadet in Cincinnati to becoming a pivotal figure in the fight against healthcare facility drug diversion.
This episode is a heartfelt farewell as John prepares for retirement, reflecting on his experiences and the evolution of IHFDA since its inception in 2015. John’s anecdotes about his early days in law enforcement, including being hit on the head with a bowling ball, provide a mix of humour and gravity, highlighting the unpredictable nature of police work.
He discusses the challenges and successes of setting up the Pharmaceutical Diversion Squad and his involvement in arresting numerous healthcare professionals involved in drug diversion. Terri and John delve into the origins of IHFDA, emphasising the need for a dedicated organisation to tackle healthcare facility diversion, separate from traditional law enforcement-focused groups. The episode also touches on John's personal life, his supportive family, and his plans post-retirement.
If you’re keen to understand the intricacies of drug diversion prevention in healthcare or simply enjoy compelling stories from seasoned professionals, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for an engaging mix of professional insights and personal reflections that underline the importance of leadership and dedication in combating drug diversion.