Roughly 5 to 10 percent of people who use opioid painkillers for more than a few days get hooked. The highly addictive nature of these medications has also fueled their trade on the black market, and because they’re pricey, it sometimes leads addicts to seek a cheaper high from heroin. Doctors, hospitals, and health systems are starting to realize some of these addictions start with them, and are taking steps to reverse the trend. At Scripps, that means educating patients about opioid use and alternative pain relief methods, and working with doctors on opioid prescribing standards. Read more about how Scripps is working to be part of the solution here. Plus, for a convenient chart on how to tell if you need to visit the emergency room, an urgent care center, or a Scripps HealthExpress, click here.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
San Diego Magazine has partnered with Scripps Health to bring you the stories behind some of the most innovative health care in America, happening right here in San Diego. Stay tuned for more inspiration from San Diego Health.
The Opioid Problem and the Scripps Solution
