From Family Doctor to Addiction Advocate: Dr. Mike Kalfas' Unexpected Journey
The basis of our humanity is the value that we place on human life, and when we stop doing that, we start to lose our humanity period.
Imagine planning a career as a family doctor, only to find yourself at the forefront of addiction medicine. That's exactly what happened to Dr. Mike Kalfas. In this episode of 'Stigmatized', Dr. Kalfas opens up about his surprising path from treating families to becoming a leading figure in addiction treatment. Initially, Dr. Kalfas had reservations about working with addiction patients, viewing addiction through a lens of stigma and legal consequences.
However, his perspective shifted dramatically when he began working at a rehab center due to a staffing shortage. He quickly realized that addiction is a complex and very real issue that demands compassionate and individualized care. Over the past 20 years, Dr. Kalfas has dedicated himself to helping thousands of people through Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).
He shares his insights on the effectiveness of MAT and discusses the broader need for systemic changes in healthcare to better support those struggling with addiction. His story is a powerful reminder that even seasoned professionals can have their views transformed through personal experience and reflection. This episode is not just about the science of addiction; it's about breaking down societal stigmas and advocating for a more compassionate approach to treatment.
Whether you're dealing with addiction yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in understanding more about this critical issue, Dr. Kalfas' journey offers valuable insights and hope. Join host Trevor Steinhauser and Dr. Mike Kalfas as they discuss the importance of community, the role of medical professionals in addiction recovery, and the ongoing battle against stigma in 'Stigmatized'.