“Tackling Michigan’s Opioid Epidemic” on Michigan’s Big Show starring Michael Patrick Shiels
Lucy Ciaramitaro
| 3 min read
In 2016, more than 2,300 Michigan residents died from drug overdoses, surpassing car accident deaths. In October of 2017, the opioid crisis was declared a public health emergency by the Department of Health and Human Services. How did we get here? What’s being done to address the epidemic? How can I keep myself and loved ones safe? Where can I find resources to help myself or a loved one? Michael Patrick Shiels and 10 influential guests from across the state covered these questions and more on Michigan’s Big Show “Tackling Michigan’s Opioid Epidemic” special, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. The show, which aired from 6:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 12, showcased the perspectives of doctors, a CEO, a judge, law enforcement, non-profit organizations, decision makers and those in recovery who are making an impact combating the opioid epidemic in our state. The full list of show guests included:
- Duane DiFranco, MD, senior medical director at Blue Care Network on what led to the national opioid epidemic.
- Ingham County Sheriff Wrigglesworth on his experiences with opioids in the community and opioid-related crime and the work being done to combat this issue on a local level.
- Daniel J. Loepp, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan on Blue Cross’ efforts addressing the opioid epidemic.
- Judge Linda Davis, district court judge of Macomb County and president of Families Against Narcotics (FAN) on the work being done by Families Against Narcotics (FAN) to address the opioid epidemic.
- State Senator Mike Shirkey on recent changes to Michigan law and what work is being done to combat the opioid epidemic from a legislative perspective.
- Lansing Mayor Andy Schor on changes to Michigan law, how it impacts the community and efforts underway to combat the opioid epidemic on a state level.
- Brian Peters, Michigan Health and Hospital Association on the work being done in the provider community to address the opioid epidemic, including the Be Rx Safe campaign.
- Senator Debbie Stabenow on what is being done on a national level to combat the opioid epidemic.
- William Nettleton, MD, MP, medical director, Calhoun County Public Health Department and co-chair of the Calhoun County Opioid Coalition on the work being done by the Calhoun County Opioid Coalition to address the opioid epidemic in the Southwest Michigan community.
- Corey Warren, co-founder of RISE Recovery Community on his journey recovering from opioid use disorder and how it inspired the vision behind RISE Recovery Community.
Listen in below to hear the full show and don’t forget to tune in to Michigan’s Big Show starring Michael Patrick Shiels live Monday through Friday from 6 to 9 a.m. Listen to "Michigan’s Big Show starring Michael Patrick Shiels - Opioid Special Program presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan" on Spreaker. Enjoy this post? Be sure to also check out our A Healthier Michigan Podcast, which is now available on iTunes and Stitcher Radio. You also might enjoy:
- Subscribe to New Health and Wellness Podcast Series
- Taking Action: Ottawa County Coalition Fighting Opioid Abuse Across Generations
- Opioids in the Workplace: Employers Key in Combating Epidemic
Photo Credit: Dave Kleinschmidt
