VIMHS

People First Radio

Vancouver Island Mental Health Society

  • Addiction medicine doctors talk treatment south of the border

Addiction medicine doctors talk treatment south of the border

Friday 18th October 2024

Drs. Paula Cook & Darlene Petersen discuss addiction treatment challenges in Utah, highlighting systemic barriers, trauma's role, and holistic care.
57 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Hopeful
Supportive
Educational

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People First Radio
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VIMHS
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Sobriety Toolkit
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
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Breaking Barriers: Insights from Addiction Medicine Experts

Episode Overview

  • Systemic barriers make accessing addiction treatment challenging.
  • Trauma plays a significant role in substance use disorders.
  • Ongoing care is crucial for long-term recovery.
  • Insurance coverage often falls short for comprehensive treatment.
  • A holistic approach that includes mental health and social conditions is essential.
The key is you have to address the underlying reasons why somebody's using
Ever wondered what it takes to tackle addiction head-on in the U.S.? In this episode of People First Radio, Dr. Paula Cook and Dr. Darlene Petersen, both specialists in addiction medicine, share their experiences and challenges practising in Utah. These two experts offer a unique perspective on the systemic barriers to accessing treatment, the intersection of addiction with other health determinants, and the critical role trauma plays in substance use disorders.
You'll hear about the differences in addiction treatment between rural and urban settings, and the various substances they encounter—from alcohol and opioids to methamphetamine and party drugs like cocaine and ketamine. Dr. Cook and Dr. Petersen don't just stop at medical treatment; they dive into the importance of ongoing care and the need for a compassionate, holistic approach. They discuss how addressing underlying issues like trauma, mental health, and social conditions is crucial for long-term recovery.
Their candid conversation sheds light on the complexities of addiction treatment and the importance of a supportive, non-judgmental environment. The episode also touches on the political and systemic issues that hinder effective treatment, such as inadequate insurance coverage and the need for more integrated care systems. Dr. Cook and Dr. Petersen advocate for policy changes that include voices from those affected by addiction, aiming for a more humane and comprehensive approach to treatment.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the multifaceted nature of addiction and the efforts required to support those on their recovery journey. Whether you're struggling with addiction, know someone who is, or are simply interested in the topic, this conversation offers valuable insights and hope. So why should you listen? Because understanding addiction from those on the front lines can inspire change and compassion in how we view and treat this pervasive issue.