According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, opioid related deaths in Barnstable, Dukes, Plymouth, and Bristol counties are among the highest in the state, and this isn’t an epidemic just affecting adults. Of the 209 young people (aged 15-24) who died in this state between January and June of this year, 41 were confirmed opioid related. Earlier this year Hyannis-based Duffy Health Center announced a 100-thousand-dollar federal grant to begin what’s called a medication assisted treatment program designed for 16- and 17-year-olds with opioid addiction. Joining us on The Point to discuss the program are: Heidi Nelson, CEO at the Duffy Health Center; Dr. David Tager, the Chief Medical Officer at the Community Health Center of Cape Cod; and Dr. Sharon Levy, pediatrician and also the Director of the Adolescent Substance Abuse Program at Boston’s Children’s Hospital. Mindy Todd hosts.
