Indiana adopts plan to combat addiction
INDIANAPOLIS — Opioid abuse is something that could happen to anyone.
It could be as simple as a patient becoming addicted to a painkiller that was legally prescribed to them. It could be complicated — someone seeking an escape from life’s pains, even if it means breaking the law.
Indiana’s leaders have recognized that opioid abuse prevention begins with awareness and action.
“Indiana’s opioid epidemic impacts all Hoosiers across our state in every age and socioeconomic group,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. “As a part of the governor’s Next Level Agenda,
we are committed to coming alongside those suffering from addiction and helping them on the path to recovery.
“We are taking this fight directly to this evil substance and those who push it, and along with our partners in the General Assembly, we are attacking the drug epidemic that is devastating our rural communities.”
Taking Action
Gov. Eric Holcomb made attacking the drug epidemic one of the five pillars of his agenda upon taking office in January.
“When it comes to taking down Indiana’s opioid crisis, we must apply every asset,” he said. “I am committed to using a comprehensive, data-driven strategy so that we can address gaps in the system and stop the current trajectory in Indiana.”
His main goals were:
- Create the position of executive director for substance abuse prevention, treatment and enforcement.
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Limit the amount of controlled substances prescriptions and refills.
- Expand local authority to establish syringe exchange programs.
- Enhance penalties for those who commit pharmacy robberies.
Holcomb appointed Jim McClelland as Indiana’s first executive director of drug prevention, treatment and enforcement.
“Hoosier communities are in jeopardy,” McClelland said. “The addiction epidemic is a very real threat to the well-being of our families, businesses, and our state’s social services and health care systems.
Filed under: General Problems
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