Download this quick clip on iTunes, SoundCloud or via RSS feed
In this week’s Inside EMS quick clip, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss the rise of deaths from heroin overdoses. A report from the CDC that says over two years, heroin overdose deaths have doubled, with an significant increase in 18- 25-year-olds.
Cebollero talks about a friend’s daughter who is addicted to the drug, and the need for EMS providers to be more compassionate toward users.
“In EMS, we mock the people who do it, but they really can’t control themselves once they become addicted to this drug,” Cebollero said.
They use a meme circulating on Facebook that says “I Narcanned your honor student” to highlight the stigma of individuals addicted to heroin.
“The comments were so negative and hurtful,” Cebollero said. EMS providers need to be more sympathetic, he said, and stop the mentality that these patients deserve what they get.
