From Doctor to Drug Dealer: The Shocking Story of Dr Paul Volkman
Episode Overview
Dr Paul Volkman's shocking transition from doctor to drug dealer. The devastating impact on patients and their families. Ethical dilemmas in chronic pain treatment. Philip Eil's thorough investigative process. The broader implications of the opioid crisis.
At one point during his criminal activity, he was practicing out of an unmarked house in a residential neighbourhood.
Ever wondered how a seemingly upstanding doctor could turn into a notorious drug dealer? This episode of The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return dives into the story of Dr Paul Volkman, as told by investigative journalist Philip Eil. Philip, an award-winning freelance journalist, shares the shocking tale of Volkman, a former medical school classmate of his father, who is now serving four life sentences for prescription drug dealing.
The story unfolds with gripping details about Volkman's operation in Southern Ohio, where he ran a cash-only pain clinic that became a hub for opioid abuse and addiction. You'll hear about desperate family members confronting Volkman and the devastating impact his actions had on patients and their loved ones. Philip’s meticulous research, including over 15 hours of interviews with Volkman and numerous conversations with experts and affected families, paints a vivid picture of this dark chapter in the opioid epidemic.
The episode also touches on the broader issues of chronic pain treatment, the ethics of medical practice, and the ongoing struggle against opioid addiction. If you're looking for a raw, unfiltered look at the complexities of addiction and the human stories behind it, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss out on this eye-opening discussion that challenges your perceptions and offers a deeper understanding of the opioid crisis.