MSMS Works Jointly to Reduce Heroin/Opioid Overdose Deaths > Michigan State Medical Society

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MSMS Works Jointly to Reduce Heroin/Opioid Overdose Deaths

A package of laws focused on increasing access to naloxone and providing Good Samaritan protections for bystanders who call for help recently was signed into law by Governor Snyder. Michigan is the latest state to adopt such measures. MSMS was a strong advocate for the legislation, which the AMA also supported. 

"Having naloxone with first responders, family members, and significant others provides the lifesaving tool needed when seconds matter," said MSMS President James Grant, MD. "The legislature took a great step with the passage of the naloxone package to ensure those precious seconds will not tick away."

"The most important reason for the AMA's support is that naloxone saves lives," the AMA wrote in support of the package of bills. "This is a medication that has no potential for abuse, is easily administered and has broad, national support from physicians, substance abuse professionals, law enforcement and other first responders, who often are the first people on the scene of an overdose."

On Monday this week, physicians, substance use disorder professionals, the Michigan State Police, the Michigan Department of Community Health, and the Michigan Department of Education held a summit meeting to discuss the effects of heroin in Michigan and how to stop the spread and usage of the drug. MSMS staff joined in the discussion with other professionals from around the state. Corey Waller, MD, from Spectrum Health Medical Group, provided the physician perspective on treating someone with an addiction.

For more information about the legislation and public health efforts regarding heroin, contact Andrew Schepers, MSMS Chief of Grassroots Development and Legislative Policy, at aschepers@msms.org or (517) 336-7579.

Posted in: State Government News, Hot Topics

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