Broadcast on KSQD Santa Cruz on 7-05-2024: The Opioid Epidemic: causes, consequence, mitigation and treatments in Santa Cruz, CA Introduction of Rita Hewitt, regional director for Central Coast overdose prevention, and her professional background. Discussion on the challenges faced by healthcare providers in managing pain and the consequences of opioid prescriptions. Examples of misuse and the impact of addiction on individuals and the community. Examination of the history of opioid use and misuse, from pharmaceutical origins to current trends. The role of pharmaceutical companies and legislation in shaping the opioid crisis. Importance of fentanyl test strips and other tools in preventing overdoses. Availability and distribution of test strips and Narcan within the community. Overview of harm reduction strategies and resources available in the community. Discussion on the effectiveness and benefits of buprenorphine and other medications in treating opioid addiction. Introduction of new substances like Xylazine and their impact on the community. Challenges in addressing these new threats and the limitations of existing overdose reversal medications like Narcan. Discussion on the increase in fentanyl-related fatalities and the ongoing challenges in addressing the crisis. Recent laws and mandates aimed at improving opioid prescription practices and overdose prevention. Overview of local initiatives and collaborations aimed at addressing the opioid crisis and improving public health outcomes. Discussion on the potential impact of upcoming legislation and community efforts on the opioid crisis. Resources Central Coast Overdose Prevention - Regional organization focusing on overdose prevention. Santa Cruz County Health Services - Provides health services and resources related to addiction and overdose prevention. Safe Rx Santa Cruz - Initiative to manage safe prescription practices. Syringe Services Program - Provides syringe exchange and harm reduction services. Monterey County Health Department - Local health department providing resources and services for addiction and overdose prevention. San Benito County Health and Human Services Opioid Task Force - Provides health and human services, including addiction and overdose prevention resources. Narcan (Naloxone) Information - Information on the overdose reversal medication Narcan. FDA - Buprenorphine Information - Information on the medication used to treat opioid addiction. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) - National resource for drug abuse and addiction research.