Community Interactive: Arizona Addicted
Community Interactive: Arizona Addicted
Presented by Arizona Public Media
In June of 2017, the alarming number of opioid deaths in Arizona caused Governor Ducey to declare a state of emergency. That emergency was terminated a year later in May of 2018. But is the opioid public health crisis truly over?
Arizona Public Media presents a community interactive event that explores Arizona’s opioid epidemic and its devastating impact on Southern Arizonans. Hosted by Arizona Pubic Media’s Tom McNamara, the event will heighten public awareness of the continual fight to save lives. Experts in the fields of addiction, law enforcement, pain management, and drug treatment, along with those personally affected by opioid use disorder, will tell of lessons learned, share progress made, and answer questions concerning the battle of Arizona addicted.
Speakers & Panelists
Panel 1 – How did we get here:
Health professionals shed light on opioid use disorder, evolution of the opioid drug, the impact of opioids on the brain, causes and stages of addiction, the impact on Southern Arizonans, and how the medical community is responding to the crisis. Todd Vanderah, Ph.D. Pharmacology Professor, University of Arizona College of MedicineSteven Dudley, PharmD, DABAT Director, Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center
Daniel Derksen, MD Director, UA Center for Rural Health
Elisa N. Gumm, DO Program Director, UA Addiction Medicine Fellowship & Addiction Services Medical Director, Southern Arizona Veteran’s Administration Healthcare system
Panel 2 – In the thick of it:
Those in recovery with substance use disorder and family members impacted by the disorder offer a candid look at what life is like for someone with an addiction, recounting struggles, loses, and hope. Tawni Terman Opioid Use Disorder SurvivorBrendan Bond Opioid Use Disorder Survivor
Jerry Beitel Parent of a Substance Use Disorder Victim
Louise Beitel Parent of a Substance Use Disorder Victim
Panel 3 – Where do we go from here:
Experts discuss combating the opioid epidemic, including treatment and recovery methods, chronic pain, and strategies to prevent new addictions and deaths. Haley Coles Executive Director, Sonoran Prevention WorksJeremy R. Chastain, MD Clinical Assistant Professor, UA Anesthesiology & Chronic Pain Management Clinic
Dan Barden Clinical Services Vice President, CODAC Health, Recovery & Wellness
Kevin Hall Assistant Chief, Tucson Police Dept, Deflection Program Creator
