Overcoming tough hurdles

The grave realities of opioid abuse often seem insurmountable. Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of death for Americans under 50.

Kentucky’s Operation UNITE launched a holistic approach nearly 20 years ago, and we’re finally overcoming tough hurdles. UNITE’s life-saving model is reflected in the federal Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) and 21st Century Cures Act.

Prescribing practices and recovery avenues are improving nationwide. Notably, Purdue Pharma recently announced its sales force will stop promoting opioids to prescribers – a testament to changing attitudes towards pain management. I applaud the decision, but question why it took so long.

– Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers, Co-Founder & Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse