Why Medical Students Need to Learn about Addiction

Why Medical Students Need to Learn about Addiction

Imagine stepping into the shoes of a medical student and realizing that addiction, America's top public health issue, is barely covered in your curriculum. In this eye-opening episode of 'Let's Talk Addiction & Recovery', host William C. Moyers sits down with three medical students who had the unique opportunity to shadow clinicians and patients at Hazelden Betty Ford treatment centers. These weeklong residencies provided them with invaluable insights into the complex and treatable nature of addiction.

The students share their transformative experiences, shedding light on the critical need for better education on substance use disorders in medical schools. They discuss the importance of medication-assisted treatment and the skills required to effectively communicate with patients about their substance use. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how future doctors can be better equipped to address addiction, offering a glimpse into how medical education can evolve to meet this pressing need.