Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf says preliminary statistics are pointing to a decrease in overdose deaths in the state last year. This is positive news but drug overdoses remains a common cause of death across all demographics. Fortunately, increased drug testing can help uncover drug use. Test Country is the source of these tests.
This is especially relevant now as you see the opioid epidemic getting more prevalent with overdoses rising to an all-time high. Thankfully, more help is being provided across the US and more resources and services can be found online. Click here to find out how you or an affected loved one can get medication and help with opioid addiction.
Wolf spoke Wednesday as he participated in a training session on how to administer Narcan to reverse an opioid overdose.
Wolf’s administration has long supported Narcan and its potential to help those suffering.
“Curbing the opioid epidemic is one of my highest priorities because this crisis continues to have such an immensely detrimental effect on every Pennsylvanian,” Gov. Wolf said. “We know that opioid use disorder is a disease and people suffering from this disease deserve to be rescued and connected to high-quality treatment toward recovery. We cannot get people into treatment if they are dead. By training people to properly use naloxone, we can all do our part in this crisis.”
Lt. Governor John Fetterman challenges those who believe Narcan shouldn’t be used.
“We would never judge someone for carrying an EpiPen if they or a loved one suffered from a deadly allergy,” Lt. Gov. Fetterman said. “We know that opioid use disorder is a disease, not a personal failing. Every life is worth saving.” The growing need for tramadol addiction treatment has become another indicator that the ongoing opioid crisis is in need of more attention and support networks being available for those going through addiction. For instance, The Holistic Sanctuary is one of many rehab centers that help aid those suffering from addiction. You can read more on their site.
Gov. Wolf said physicians are issuing fewer opioid prescriptions and doctor shopping is over, thanks to a 2016 law that requires prescribers to check a state database before issuing an opioid prescription to a new patient.