Latest News On Substance Misuse

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Aspiring Doctors Seek Advanced Training In Addiction Medicine

KFF Health News Original

Once a tiny specialty that drew mostly psychiatrists, addiction medicine is expanding its accredited training to include primary care residents and “social justice warriors” who see it as a calling.

More States Say Doctors Must Offer Overdose Reversal Drug Along With Opioids

KFF Health News Original

In an emerging new tactic against the rising toll of opioid deaths, California, Ohio, Virginia and Arizona are among the states requiring physicians to offer patients naloxone when they give them prescriptions for the powerful painkillers. The Food and Drug Administration is weighing a national recommendation to do so.

Discharged, Dismissed: ERs Often Miss Chance To Set Overdose Survivors On ‘Better Path’

KFF Health News Original

Only a small percentage of people who survived an opioid overdose received in the next year some form of drug abuse treatment, according to an analysis of West Virginia Medicaid claims data. Experts say the findings underscore a national disconnect.

Two Crises In One: As Drug Use Rises, So Does Syphilis

KFF Health News Original

A significant portion of syphilis transmission in heterosexuals occurs among people who use drugs, particularly methamphetamine, a new report shows. Public health officials warn that you can’t treat one problem without addressing the other.

What ‘Dope Sick’ Really Feels Like

KFF Health News Original

Just as each person’s journey into addiction is unique, different approaches work for people trying to find their way out. For me, detoxing was nightmarish. And a long-held dream come true.

Students With Addictions Immersed In The Sober Life At ‘Recovery’ High Schools

KFF Health News Original

At one Seattle public school, students earn their diplomas while attending daily support groups and meeting with counselors to help them stay off drugs and alcohol. There are about 40 similar schools around the country, both public and private, and more are on the drawing board.