Life on the Front Lines: Randolph County EMS Battles Overdose Crisis
The sad truth of it, chip, is they may run an overdose right now and it results in a death. But I wouldn't say there's no special protocol.
Ever wondered what it's like to be on the front lines of the overdose crisis? In this episode of 'Drugs Did This,' retired journalist Chip Womick chats with Capt. Bradley Cooper and Sgt. Jason Burgess from Randolph County Emergency Medical Services. These two have seen it all, responding to a staggering 784 overdose calls in 2022 alone. They share their firsthand experiences, revealing how the number of overdose incidents has skyrocketed since 2008.
But it's not just about the numbers; it's about the lives saved and the ongoing battle against substance use disorder. Cooper and Burgess dive into the crucial role of Narcan in these life-or-death situations and the emotional toll that constant exposure to such emergencies takes on EMS personnel. They also touch on the challenges of locating and assisting individuals who might be reluctant to seek help.
This episode doesn't shy away from the hard truths, offering a raw look at the realities faced by those working tirelessly to save lives in their community. If you're interested in understanding the human impact of the opioid epidemic and the heroic efforts to combat it, this conversation is a must-listen.