Washington's Take on Behavioral Health: Insights from Andrew Kessler, JD
No, you know that if you were to take all of the pills, all the heroin, all the cocaine, all the methamphetamine, make a pile and put it over here and say: this is the damage that it's caused.
Ever wondered how Washington D.C. shapes the landscape of behavioral health policy? In this episode of 'Scope of Practice', Andrew Kessler, JD, shares his expertise as a Federal Policy Liaison and Principal at Slingshot Solutions. Kessler dives into the intricacies of policy-making in the nation's capital, highlighting the challenges and priorities that drive decisions in behavioral health.
He paints a vivid picture of how the opioid epidemic has ravaged rural America and why it's a top public health issue that demands focused attention. Kessler doesn't just stop at the problems; he discusses the crucial role of funding for research and education, stressing the importance of understanding the legislative process to ensure these funds are used effectively.
The conversation also explores the future of the addiction workforce, with Kessler underscoring the need to incentivize professionals to remain in the field and combat discrimination against those battling addiction. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the intersection of policy and addiction recovery. Whether you're a policymaker, a professional in the field, or someone affected by these issues, Kessler's perspectives offer valuable takeaways.