GMCC Healthcare Committee: "The Epidemic of Opioid Addiction"

The Webinar was held on: August 16, 2024

Watch the Full Webinar Here

Topics Covered:

Key Takeaway 1: The Global and National Opioid Crisis

• The opioid epidemic has reached critical levels globally, with 39.5 million people experiencing drug use disorders in 2021 and 600,000 deaths related to drug use in 2019. In the U.S., the crisis resulted in nearly $1.5 trillion in economic costs in 2020, underlining the extensive societal and financial impact.

Key Takeaway 2: The Risks of Prescription Sharing

• A significant portion of individuals misusing opioids obtain them from friends or relatives, underscoring the need for better education on safe medication practices and stricter prescription regulations to prevent accidental harm.

Key Takeaway 3: The Escalating Threat of Fentanyl

• Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 times more potent than heroin, has become a driving force behind the surge in overdose deaths. The widespread availability of counterfeit pills containing lethal doses of fentanyl has intensified the crisis.

Speakers:

Dr. Joshua D. Lenchus, DO, RPh, FACP, SFHM
Immediate Past President, Florida Medical Association
Past President, Florida Osteopathic Medical Association

Welcome & Opening Remarks by Eneida O. Roldan, MD, MPH, MBA
Greater Miami Chamber Healthcare Committee Chair
Chief Executive Officer, FIU Health Care Network
Associate Dean, International Affairs; Associate Dean, Master in Physician Assistant Studies
Professor, Department of Pathology, Florida International University

Evelyn Terrell, OTD, MHSA, OTR/L
Greater Miami Chamber Healthcare Committee Vice Chair
Director of Telehealth and Special Projects, Nicklaus Children’s Health System

Summary: This webinar provided a comprehensive exploration of the opioid crisis, focusing on its widespread societal and economic impacts. Experts discussed the role of responsible drug use, the dangers of prescription sharing, and the escalating threat posed by fentanyl. The event highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders. For further details, watch the full recording linked above.