Report through formal channels — this constitutes a DEA violation, fraud, and indicates an impaired provider who poses a risk to patients
This is the correct and legally required response. Prescribing controlled substances using a fictitious patient name is a federal DEA violation, constitutes healthcare fraud, and indicates substance use disorder or diversion that creates patient safety concerns. Formal reporting should be made through institutional channels, to the DEA, and to the state licensing board as appropriate. The PMHNP has both an ethical and legal obligation to report.