Shattering Stigma: How Healthcare Can Make a Difference
Stigma casts a really wide net... I truly believe that addiction is the most stigmatized condition, and that's where we can be patient advocates to really help them navigate this system with so much stigma that is biased against them.
Ever thought about how stigma affects healthcare? It might surprise you to learn that experiencing stigma can actually shorten a person's life by 12 years. In this episode of 'Addiction in Emergency Medicine and Acute Care', Dr. Casey Grover takes a hard look at stigma—what it is, how it impacts patients, and what can be done to reduce it in healthcare settings. Dr.
Grover, who recently gave a Grand Rounds presentation on the topic, shares a rapid review of his findings and insights. Stigma doesn't just make patients feel isolated; it can lead to worse health outcomes and even deter people from seeking the care they need. Dr. Grover dives into various studies to define stigma and explore its devastating effects on patients, particularly those dealing with addiction.
He stresses the pivotal role healthcare providers play in reducing stigma and offers practical strategies for creating a more supportive and understanding environment. But it doesn't stop there. Dr. Grover also touches on the impact of adverse childhood events on patients, underscoring the need for empathy and compassion in medical care. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the healthcare field who wants to make a real difference in their patients' lives.
By breaking down stigma, we can help ensure better health outcomes and a more inclusive healthcare system.