Dr. Tom Gilson on Tackling the Opioid Crisis in Northeast Ohio
There is a window of time where, if you can reverse the effects of the drug, you can potentially save that person's life, and that's where naloxone comes into play.
Ever wondered what it's like to be on the front lines of the opioid epidemic? In this episode of Cover2 Resources, Greg sits down with Dr. Tom Gilson, the medical examiner for Cuyahoga County, to get an insider's perspective. With 22 years in the field and five in his current role, Dr. Gilson has witnessed firsthand the alarming rise of opioid misuse in Northeast Ohio.
He shares how the potency of illegal narcotics has skyrocketed, making the fight against addiction even more challenging. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Dr. Gilson highlights the life-saving potential of naloxone, especially for those most vulnerable right after leaving jail or treatment. He also dives into the often-overlooked connection between addiction and mental health, stressing the need for better pain management practices in the US.
Whether you're dealing with addiction personally or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to help make a difference.