Lawrence D Mass: Breaking Barriers in Addiction Medicine and AIDS Advocacy
I think we are really being set back Decades in every major area of healthcare.
Imagine being at the forefront of two of the most critical health crises in modern history. Lawrence D Mass has done just that. As a specialist in addiction medicine and the first journalist to write about AIDS in the press, Mass has been a pioneering force in both fields. In this episode of 'The Peace on Drugs', host Aaron Akulis sits down with Mass to discuss his remarkable career and the lessons he's learned along the way.
Mass is not just a medical expert; he's a co-founder of Gay Men's Health Crisis, an organization that has been instrumental in changing the conversation around AIDS. His advocacy work began in the early days of the epidemic in New York City, where he played a crucial role in raising awareness and fighting for those affected by the disease. But his contributions don't stop there.
Mass has also been a vocal critic of the war on drugs, highlighting its detrimental impact on addiction treatment and healthcare as a whole. He argues for more compassionate and effective treatment options, including the use of psychedelics for conditions like PTSD and end-of-life care. In today's political climate, where issues of healthcare and social justice are more pressing than ever, Mass's insights offer a sobering yet inspiring perspective.
He delves into the current state of healthcare in the United States, the rise of authoritarianism, and the urgent need for vigilance and action. If you're interested in addiction medicine, AIDS advocacy, or healthcare reform, this episode is a must-listen. Aaron Akulis's conversation with Lawrence D Mass is not just informative but also deeply engaging, offering a rich tapestry of narratives and insights that are sure to leave a lasting impression.