Can Paramedics Be The First Step In Addiction Treatment?

We all know the stats surrounding the opioid crisis. Between 2016 and 2017, drug overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids other than methadone increased 45% (see 70,000+ Drug Overdose Deaths Reported In 2017, Up 9.6% From 2016). Between 2008 and 2016, the national rate of opioid inpatient stays increased almost 79.2% (see National Rate of Opioid-Related Inpatient Stays Increased 79% Since 2008). And on average, 130 people die each day from an opioid overdose in the U.S. (see Understanding the Epidemic).

These stats are why a recent headline caught my attention – New Jersey is allowing paramedics . . .