In my last column, I discussed the progress made in the past several years addressing the opioid epidemic and other substance use disorders (SUDs). Improvements noted include reductions in prescription opioids and drug misuse, less heroin use among young people, wider distribution of naloxone kits to reduce drug overdose deaths, and a modest reduction in overdose deaths after several years of increasing deaths. I also reported an increase in medical practitioners trained and certified to provide medications for patients with opioid addiction seen in hospitals, emergency departments, or community clinics; quicker and easier access to treatment via “warm handoffs”; and more use of peers in recovery who function as paid professionals or volunteers. More individuals with opioid addiction are now engaging in treatment as a result.
About Me
Dennis C. Daley, PhD, served many roles at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He is the author of many articles, treatment manuals, books, and guides for families and children affected by addiction. He helped facilitate B2H programs at two hospitals.
