Substance use disorders, suicides and diabetes are driving a rise in premature deaths in almost half of the United States, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
A network of health centers in New York state is using safety planning – which has most often been associated with reducing risk of suicide – in an attempt to reduce opioid overdoses.
Authorities planning for natural disasters such as hurricanes must prepare for its effect on people struggling with drugs or alcohol, experts tell the Associated Press. The stress of hurricanes leads to an increased danger of relapse and overdose.
The practice of mindfulness may be helpful for people trying to reduce their dose of the opioid medication buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone), according to Zev Schuman-Olivier, MD, Executive Director, Center for Mindfulness and Compassion, Cambridge Health Alliance.
Addiction treatment is most successful when it lasts more than 30 days, according to researchers at the University of Southern California. They found after one year, the treatment success rate was 55 percent for those who underwent a 30-day treatment program, and 84 percent for those in treatment programs that lasted longer.
Some health experts are warning that repealing the Affordable Care Act could slash treatment for addiction and mental health, the Associated Press reports.
Aetna is the latest health insurer to announce it will no longer require preauthorization for opioid addiction treatment, Kaiser Health News reports. The change takes effect this month and applies to commercial plans.
In 2015, more than 12 million Americans reported misusing a prescription opioid in the past year. All of us – health care professionals, parents, educators, community leaders, law enforcement and policy makers – have a role to play in reversing the nation’s opioid epidemic and saving lives. The American Medical Association and the Partnership together are committed to ensuring that physicians and families have the education and resources they need. We urge you to join us in our efforts to reverse this national epidemic.
