Advocacy in Action: Libby Jones on Overdose Prevention
Episode Overview
The importance of grassroots advocacy in driving policy change. Challenges and successes in expanding access to treatment. The role of parents who have lost children to drugs in advocacy. The impact of removing barriers like the X waiver. Legislative efforts aimed at reducing overdose deaths.
Advocates have power when they organise and contact their congressional and local leaders.
Get ready for a deep dive into drug policy advocacy with Dr. Roneet Lev on High Truths on Drugs and Addiction. In this episode, Dr. Lev chats with Libby Jones, Program Director of the Global Health Advocacy Incubator’s Overdose Prevention Initiative. Libby is at the forefront of advocating for federal policies to tackle the overdose crisis in the U.S. With over 15 years of experience in various government roles, Libby brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
She shares her journey from working with the Pew Charitable Trusts to her current role, highlighting the challenges and successes in expanding access to treatment and promoting harm reduction strategies. Libby discusses the importance of grassroots advocacy and how parents who have lost children to drugs are driving significant changes in policy. You'll hear about the critical role of advocacy in removing barriers like the X waiver, which previously complicated access to life-saving medications like buprenorphine.
This episode is packed with valuable insights into the legislative efforts aimed at reducing overdose deaths and improving drug treatment systems. If you're passionate about making a difference in drug policy or just curious about how advocacy works at the federal level, this episode is a must-listen. So, why not tune in and get inspired by the incredible work being done to combat the overdose crisis?