Title: Impact of Addiction Explored: Push for Improved Treatment and Support
In a distressing revelation, addiction and its devastating consequences have plagued three generations of Morgan Coyner’s family, underscoring the far-reaching impact of this issue. The situation has only worsened in recent times due to the pandemic, with overdose deaths hitting a record high last year.
According to a recent poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), addiction has touched the lives of two out of three adults in the United States, either personally or through a family member. This alarming statistic sheds light on the gravity of the problem, with alcohol being identified as the most common substance of addiction. However, the survey also revealed that a significant proportion of adults reported addiction related to opioids.
Disturbingly, opioid addiction is more prevalent in rural areas and among white adults, who often have limited access to treatment resources. Many adults affected by addiction have not received the necessary treatment, thereby highlighting the urgent need for improved accessibility to affordable care.
Morgan Coyner has emerged as a prominent advocate for addressing addiction-related issues as the executive vice president of Addiction Professionals North Carolina. Working closely with the state health department and lawmakers, her organization strives to meet the growing demands for treatment services. They are actively pushing for legislation to safeguard patients against unethical providers and to ensure equitable treatment for substance use disorders and mental health issues.
The KFF poll also revealed that half of the respondents expressed concerns about the possibility of a family member grappling with addiction or experiencing a severe mental health crisis. Coyner firmly believes that funding and offering preventative care are pivotal in combating addiction effectively.
With hope on the horizon, Coyner anticipates that the funds secured through Medicaid expansion and opioid settlement money will provide much-needed support to those in need. Coyner and her team are currently working with communities to devise effective strategies for utilizing the $1.5 billion expected to be allocated to the state.
In conclusion, addiction has inflicted deep wounds on families across generations, and with the pandemic exacerbating the issue, it has become more vital than ever to address the treatment gaps and improve access to affordable care. Morgan Coyner’s passionate advocacy, along with collaborative efforts involving the state health department, lawmakers, and local communities, aims to bring about positive change and ensure that no individual suffers alone in their battle against addiction.
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