Portsmouth's Pill-Mill Past: A Nurse's Perspective on Recovery and Hope
This is probably the greatest challenge we've ever faced as a country in terms of this public health crisis and one of the biggest barriers that I see- and you know, I still take crap from people all the time- about. You know, whenever we piloted the naloxone program, I mean I would read the comments on the newspapers throughout the country that would say: what are they doing?
Imagine working in the heart of a community ravaged by the opioid crisis for nearly three decades. That's exactly what Lisa Roberts, a Health Department Nurse in Portsmouth, Ohio, has done. In this episode of the Cover 2 Resources podcast, host Greg McNeil sits down with Roberts to uncover the gritty reality of Portsmouth's pill-mill past and its lingering effects on the community.
This episode is part of a series examining life after Sam Quinones’ groundbreaking book, Dreamland, which shed light on America's opioid epidemic. Roberts shares her firsthand experiences with the devastating impact of OxyContin and the criminal overprescribing practices that plagued Portsmouth. She recounts the influx of imported doctors who contributed to the crisis and paints a vivid picture of a community in turmoil. But it's not all doom and gloom.
Roberts also highlights the resilience and determination of Portsmouth's residents as they fight back against addiction. One of the key points Roberts discusses is the importance of harm reduction programs, such as the naloxone initiative she piloted. These programs have been crucial in saving lives and providing a safety net for those struggling with addiction. Roberts' personal connection to the crisis—her own daughter's battle with addiction—adds a deeply human element to the conversation, making it relatable and poignant.
The episode doesn't just dwell on the past; it looks forward with hope. Roberts talks about the recovery gateway program and the essential role of community support in overcoming addiction. Her insights offer a blend of hard-earned wisdom and optimism, making this episode both informative and inspiring. Whether you're directly affected by the opioid crisis or simply want to understand it better, this episode provides valuable perspectives and practical solutions.
Tune in to hear how one community is navigating its way from despair to hope.