“We see a lot of news about the
opioid epidemic, but I believe the
more context people have about
how it began and developed, the
better we can address it.”
WVE hopes this meeting of the minds is just the beginning
of more innovative and comprehensive ways for West Virginia
to take care of its own.
“It was great to speak to this particular group of people
because they are in positions to help shape policies and make
decisions related to the opioid epidemic through their organi-
zations and companies,” says Temple. “We see a lot of news
about the opioid epidemic, but I believe the more context
people have about how it began and developed, the better we
can address it.”
“Changing the way patients view pain and how pain is treated
will be a big step in preventing addiction in the future,” says
Wilson. “We can do this by providing education to patients
and their families about dependency and tolerance to opioids;
determining a plan for outpatient follow-up if they are prescribed
opiates with an estimated wean time frame; limiting opioid
prescriptions to the least amount of days needed; providing
resources to inpatient treatment and detoxification facilities,
providers and other staff; having direct conversations with
patients regarding medications and other options prior to
administering opiates; and encouraging the use of non-opiate
options prior to using opiates such as Tylenol, Motrin, physical
therapy and massage.”
One of the most discussed topics at the event was how indi-
viduals and companies can get involved in easing the burden
this epidemic has placed on the state, and many attendees had
recommendations, including Wilson.
“Advocate for recovery,” she says. “Volunteer with organi-
zations. Encourage patients who are in recovery to apply and
get hired for jobs. Reach out to MAT programs or recovery
programs to offer volunteer hours to patients.”
According to Melissa Kisner, FNP-BC, a population health
coach at Davis Health System who also spoke at the Young
Guns event, one of the biggest obstacles facing West Virginia
professionals and companies is that they often work inde-
pendently when they should be working together to tackle big
issues. She also believes Mountain State companies can make
a big difference in the lives of those suffering from substance
use disorder.
“Hire rehabilitated people and offer coverage with insurance
for inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, support groups and
compassion,” she suggests.
Rachel Coffman and
Joe Deacon discussing recovery
challenges and solutions.
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