The Nation’s Prescription Drug & Heroin Epidemic – The State of the Union

President Obama’s final State of the Union earlier this week made mention of our nation’s prescription drug and heroin epidemic. He insinuates that he will be tackling drug addiction in the upcoming year prior to leaving office, although does not clarify his intentions. Perhaps his efforts will focus on providing better, more accessible treatment?

Or increased oversight of insurance companies to safeguard that they are actually providing the care promised in their benefit summaries, instead of the trend that we see of frequent denials and refusal to reimburse. Now that over 90% of Americans have health insurance, they should be able to use it!  I remain skeptical, but I am happy to see addiction getting the attention that it deserves and being brought to the forefront among national security, cancer, and climate change.

Leslie Sanders, Psy.D.
Program Director
AToN Center 888-535-1516