Ep. 246 - Turning Tragedy into Prevention: Lessons from Opioid Fatality Reviews
Really just trying to build programs in the city that can influence and impact this epidemic that's ravaging the country- I think that those are the main takeaways- is really just structuring and looking at it from not only the grand, the bird's eye view, but also looking at it from the ground, from the person that we're reviewing.
What if the stories of those lost to opioid overdoses could help save lives? This episode of Cover 2 Resources dives into that very question. Dr. Tom Gilson, the well-known medical examiner from Cuyahoga County, Ohio, and Brittney Spencer, the Overdose Fatality Review (OFR) Coordinator for the Maryland Department of Health, share their experiences and insights. Dr. Gilson revisits the tragic report of Sam McNeil to shed light on the broader implications of the opioid crisis in Northeast Ohio.
Meanwhile, Brittney Spencer explains how her team meticulously examines autopsy reports, treatment admissions, police records, and more to uncover missed opportunities for prevention. These efforts have led to the creation of new programs like Levels of Care and EMS Leave Behind, which aim to reduce future substance use disorders. By studying the lives lost to addiction, these professionals are crafting a roadmap for effective intervention and support.
Tune in to hear how these initiatives are making a real difference in communities battling the opioid epidemic.