From Big Pharma to Recovery - The Intersection of the Opioid Epidemic and the Criminal Legal System

For more information on these topics, visit the following resources:
ORN MOUD in Corrections
Community Supervision toolkit
ORN Course on Healtheknowledge
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Funding for this initiative was made possible (in part) by grant no. 1H79TI085588 from SAMHSA. The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

The debut episode of "From Big Pharma to Recovery - The Intersection of the Opioid Epidemic and the Criminal Legal System" is hosted by Brian Lovins, who has worked in the criminal legal system for 30 years. This podcast aims to explore the opioid epidemic and its intersection with the criminal legal system.

In this episode, titled "How and Why are we here? The Breadth of the Problem," We discuss the origins of the opioid epidemic, including Big Pharma and pill mills, and talk to experts about when they first realized the crisis was underway.

During the episode, the experts discuss opioid use disorder, withdrawal, and Narcan, a medication used to save lives. They also address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the opioid epidemic. This podcast aims to bring evidence-based treatment and reduce barriers to accessing treatment for opioid use disorders, both at the state and federal levels, and to find solutions to the opioid epidemic and criminal justice reform.

In this episode titled "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Criminal Legal System," we examine the opioid epidemic through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We look at how the epidemic has affected different communities in unique ways due to disparities in access to treatment options, law enforcement activity, and incarceration rates.

We talk to a panel of experts about the impact of these disparities on communities of color and marginalized groups and how they have shaped the epidemic. Our experts identify ways to remove these social and racial barriers and provide equal access and treatment for those with opioid use disorder.

By examining the opioid epidemic through a DEI lens, we hope to identify ways to address disparities and create more equitable outcomes for those affected by the crisis.

In this episode titled "Stigma: A National Public Health Crisis,," we take a look at the impact of stigma on those with opioid use disorders.

Stigma is defined as "a degrading and debasing attitude of the society that discredits a person or a group because of an attribute... Stigma destroys a person’s dignity; marginalizes affected individuals; violates basic human rights; markedly diminishes the chances of a stigmatized person achieving their full potential, and seriously hampers pursuit of happiness and contentment."

This episode focuses on the barriers that exist for people with opioid use disorders, including stigma, language, and other barriers such as transportation, housing, and insurance that prevent people from getting on the path to recovery. We also explore how these barriers impact MOUD programs and what methods can be used to help overcome them.

By discussing the impact of stigma on individuals with opioid use disorders, we hope to identify ways to reduce stigmatization and create more equitable outcomes for those affected by the crisis.

In this episode titled "Law Enforcement and Early Justice System Engagement," we discuss MOUD (medications for opioid use disorder) in the criminal legal system, specifically in law enforcement and correctional programs.

Our panel of experts dives into how MOUD programs work in correctional settings and the options for MOUD treatment that communities can adopt. We also discuss how individuals are assessed and the support they need upon discharge, as well as the benefits of connecting MOUD programs with other agencies in their communities.

By exploring the implementation of MOUD programs in correctional settings and the benefits of connecting them with other agencies, we hope to identify ways to increase access to treatment and improve outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorders.