The Local Lens is a public health podcast going inside one community's experience with the drug epidemic. Everyone in the town of Stanton, KY sees this drug issue differently from each other, either because of their personal lives or professional roles. This show aims to showcase those different perspectives by having honest, in-depth interviews.
This episode features Van Ingram, the executive director of the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy for the past 18 years. He has been a part of many of the progressive pushes toward freedom from addiction our state has seen. A lot has been accomplished, but in his own words, "there is still a lot of work to do."
Topics flow from the history of the epidemic, "Recovery Ready Communities," criminal justice, and especially some nudges in the right direction for the future. We cover syringe exchanges, fentanyl test strips, and the balance of proactivity and using evidence-based practices. We also get to briefly cover the massive $483-million-dollar lump of money from the Johnson and Johnson settlement.
This man has been around since the beginning of our state's notable efforts to curb the opioid epidemic. The perspective he adds to our collage of a show is one that zooms all the way out, covering the big picture (at least for Kentucky).
These are our people, using our voices, telling our stories, because no one sees it like we do.
Mentioned Episodes
Jennell Brewer - Founder of SPARK Ministries
How It Works - Lt. Jimmy Daniels - Mount Sterling Police Department
The True Roots of Recovery - Part One - Dr. Alex Elswick
Jarrett Rose and Brad Epperson - The Role of the Court System
Mentioned Data Source:
Harm reduction measures employed by people using opioids with suspected fentanyl exposure in Boston, Baltimore, and Providence
Also, while you're here, help us out by taking this quick survey!
24-Hour Crisis Line: 1-833-8KY-HELP (1-833-859-4357)
Visit findhelpnowky.org to find treatment options for you in Kentucky.
Need help now? Call the Mountain Comp Care 24-Hour Helpline: 1-800-422-1060
Learn more about the Kentucky State Police's Angel Initiative here.
Keep up with The Local Lens on Facebook, Instagram (@thelocallens_podcast) or on their website.
The Local Lens is sponsored by Kentucky Opioid Community Healing (from the Kentucky Rural Health Information Organization) and Powell County CARES (from the Powell County Health Department).
Find Powell County CARES on social media:
https://www.facebook.com/powellcountycares
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