Morrisey announces comprehensive approach to opioid epidemic

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — State Attorney General Patrick Morrisey unveiled several initiatives at the state Capitol Tuesday in an effort to fight West Virginia’s opioid epidemic.

Part of the plan includes a draft of best practice guidelines aiming to reduce the prescription of opioids where it’s not necessary.

Attorney General Patrick Morrisey says eradicating substance abuse demands a holistic and multi-faceted approach."
Attorney General Patrick Morrisey says “eradicating substance abuse demands a holistic and multi-faceted approach.”

“We seek to dramatically reduce the use of opioids as a first-line therapy in the treatment of pain,” Morrisey said. “We’re trying to increase the use of non-opioid alternatives so patients can obtain the therapies they need without the risk of becoming addicted.”

MORE Read Morrisey’s best practices plan here

Morrisey also discussed a new disposal plan for prescription products and a public service announcement campaign.

“We’re looking at this issue from a holistic perspective,” he said. “We’re going after it from a supply and demand and an educational perspective. We’ve been very aggressive in our educational efforts, and we’ve been aggressive on the enforcement side as well.”

Morrisey will work with another group to purchase four incinerators to dispose of unused prescription drugs. He said the disposal issue is a problem he hears of often.

The prescription drug issue has spiraled out of control in West Virginia to the point that drastic action is needed, Morrisey said.

“People are dying, and the overdose rate is absolutely unacceptable. It’s over twice the national average,” he said. “We have to do something fundamental, and these initiatives today are designed to accomplish that goal.”

Morrisey said he’s confident the initiatives and other efforts can reduce opioid use in West Virginia by 25 percent.





More News

News
Charleston animal shelter seeks more donations, fosters following U-Haul crash
The corner roof of the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association building was stabilized Thursday morning.
March 28, 2024 - 12:41 pm
News
Controversial unemployment bill becomes law without governor's signature
The bill freezes employer contributions and freezes benefits for people who lose their jobs.
March 28, 2024 - 12:20 pm
News
Governor signs bill phasing out state taxes on Social Security and receives praise
The phase-out would mean a 35% cut retroactive to Jan. 1, 2024; 65% in 2025 and 100% in 2026.
March 28, 2024 - 11:46 am
News
West Virginia Parkways Authority prepares for Easter travelers on the Turnpike
More than 500,000 transactions are projected at the West Virginia Turnpike through Monday.
March 28, 2024 - 11:30 am