The Opioid Problem and the Scripps Solution

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.

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The Opioid Problem and the Scripps Solution