Ep. 64 – Why Rural Americans are Falling to Diseases of Despair: Lenny Bernstein, Washington Post

Ep. 64 – Why Rural Americans are Falling to Diseases of Despair: Lenny Bernstein, Washington Post

Why are rural communities facing such a devastating impact from opioid addiction? In this gripping episode of Cover2 Resources, host Greg McNeil sits down with Lenny Bernstein from The Washington Post to explore the alarming rise in deaths due to alcoholism, suicide, and drug overdose among rural white Americans. Lenny and his team spent a year investigating this crisis, uncovering shocking evidence of how distribution companies flooded rural pharmacies with far more pills than they could ever sell or store.

These excess opioids inevitably found their way onto the streets, exacerbating the epidemic. Lenny sheds light on the legal battles against pharmaceutical companies and the crucial role of prescription tracking databases. But it’s not just about pointing fingers; the episode also delves into actionable steps that can be taken to combat this ongoing crisis. From community initiatives to policy changes, Lenny offers a comprehensive look at what’s being done and what more can be done to save lives.

If you’re interested in understanding the complexities of the opioid epidemic and want to hear about real solutions, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you’re personally affected by addiction or simply want to be informed, Greg and Lenny provide valuable insights that could make a difference.