Is the Missouri Network for Opiate Reform and Recovery Working?

The battle against opiate overdose has reached new heights in the state of Missouri, as both activists and lawmakers attempt to find their own cures for the problem of addiction. The Missouri network for opiate reform and recovery works toward legislative and educational reform so their residents are not dying of opiate and heroin addiction and overdose.

As of 2013, Missouri had the seventh highest drug overdose mortality rate in the country, according to the Trust for America’s Health, a nonprofit drug addiction research group. Many of the drug overdose deaths are attributable to either prescription drugs or heroin.

However, in spite of the fact that Missouri’s overdose rate is so high, the state has yet to enact the measures that prevent overdoses–measures adopted by other states. The Trust for America’s Health said Missouri scored only a 3 out of 10 possible for measures to curb prescription drug abuse.

Advocates Raise Awareness for Prescription Drug Overdoses in Missouri

Activist Chad Sabora of the Missouri Network for Opiate Reform and Recovery has been leading the charge to create public awareness of the issue. In February, Sabora and his group took a coffin to the state capital which they constructed and filled with prescription drug bottles labeled with the names of people who had died from overdoses.

The protest was designed to draw attention to the state’s debate. The debate centers on whether or not to create a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP). The purpose of a PDMP is to prevent people from doctor shopping to get multiple prescriptions for pain. Missouri is the only state in the country that lacks a PDMP.

Lawmakers Search for Solutions to Substance Abuse in the Missouri Network for Opiate Reform and Recovery

On the government front of the issue, lawmakers have submitted three separate bills to create a PDMP. However, as was the case with previous PDMP bills that get voted down and face tough opposition.

Other bills designed to fight prescription drug abuse have gained some traction in the Missouri legislature as well. One bill would allow pharmacists to prescribe the opiate overdose remedy Narcan. This drug can save the life of a person who is overdosing. It works on heroin or prescription opiate overdose in a matter of seconds. Narcan comes with no potential for abuse.

Another bill would provide protection from prosecution for people who seek treatment for a person who is overdosing. This “Good Samaritan Bill” means that anyone who helps a friend or loved one overdosing would avoid prosecution. If they have or use drugs, they will not be prosecuted.

Update

As of March 2018, Missouri has not yet passed the PDMP bill. The opiate and heroin addiction and overdose statistics continue to rise. How many more have to die before things change in the Missouri legislature?

Detox Provides Path Out of Addiction

Missouri continues to find its own way through the opiate abuse crisis. Many Missourian families are wondering what they can do to help their loved ones battle addiction. A Missouri network for opiate reform and recovery can’t seem to find a solution. If your loved one has a problem with heroin or prescription opiates, Serenity House Detox & Recovery can help. Our Florida detox centers provide individuals with the best option for recovery. Our compassionate professionals will keep your loved one safe and on the path to recovery. Call us at 866-294-5306 to help your loved one get clean.