Waismann Method ® Medical Group urges health care professionals and public health officials to improve awareness and access to effective drug treatment programs.
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., June 23, 2015 – According to a recent study by non-profit group Trust for America’s Health, deaths from drug overdose have risen dramatically in the United States. A majority of states reported an increase in drug-related fatalities from 2009 to 2013.
In light of this study, the Waismann Method ® Medical Group is urging health care professionals and public health officials to improve awareness and access to effective drug treatment programs. Although public concern about the country’s drug problem remains high, relatively few Americans know that there are safe and effective treatment options for opiate dependence. The Waismann Method center believes that raising awareness about the risks of drug abuse and availability of treatment may reverse the worrisome trend toward increased drug-related fatalities.
Trust for America’s Health tracked injury deaths across the country. Drug overdose was the number one cause of injury deaths, with more than 44,000 people dying from drug overdoses in 2013. This figure is more than double the number of drug-related fatalities from 1999. Over half of the overdose deaths were related to prescription drugs, with opioid painkillers representing a significant part of the problem.
Deaths from Drug Overdose on the Rise in the U.S., Shining a Light on Treatment Needs
Dr. Michael H. Lowenstein, Medical Director of the Waismann Method ®, hailed the recent study as “a wake-up call,” noting that policy changes are needed to reduce the negative effects of prescription opiate abuse on patients and families. Dr. Lowenstein said, “Deaths from drug overdose are preventable. Unfortunately, our current medical system allows too many people struggling with the disease of addiction to fall through the cracks. Just 11% of those who need treatment get care at a professional drug treatment center. Expanding access to safe and effective treatments for opiate dependence, including rapid opiate detox, can combat the problem before tragic overdoses occur.”
In agreement with the study recommendations, the Waismann Method ® center urges states to adopt prescription drug monitoring programs. Half of all U.S. states lack such programs. The Waismann Method Medical Group also calls on communities and local governments to partner with drug treatment centers to improve access to rapid opiate detox and other safe and effective treatments for drug addiction.
Source: Reuters
