Metamfetamine

The estate of Kaitlyn Evans, who died of a drug overdose in Clearfield County Prison, seeks court approval for a $1 million settlement. Evans, 32, was found dead in her cell after two other inmates overdosed. The lawsuit alleges prison staff were 'deliberately indifferent' to her medical needs. The settlement is the second in a year involving deaths at the prison, prompting security improvements.

Jackson County's new deflection program, launching Oct. 7, offers resources and incentives for those caught with small amounts of drugs to seek treatment, dropping criminal charges if they comply with treatment requirements, including 10 meaningful engagements with counselors.

Oregon's drug decriminalization law changes lead to better arrest options for low-level offenders, offering treatment or jail. Lincoln County's program, funded by $341,256, faces delays and internal debate over the deflection coordinator's placement, currently unresolved.

A fentanyl vaccine shows promise in rats, preventing the drug's euphoric effects by blocking its action on mu opioid receptors. The vaccine, specific to fentanyl, is set for human trials and could aid in opioid addiction treatment, though it's not a standalone solution. Other drug dependency vaccines have shown limited success, highlighting the need for comprehensive addiction treatments including psychotherapy.

Arizona's Medicaid fraud investigation led to suspension of contracts with hundreds of substance treatment clinics, leaving patients without care. A state hotline for displaced patients showed over 575 callers ended up unsheltered, increasing relapse risks. Some clinics cleared of allegations struggled financially, unable to serve former patients due to denied claims. The crisis particularly affected Native American communities, with many facilities not accepting new American Indian Health Program patients. Patients like Rainy, a 7-year-old with trauma history, regressed without counseling, highlighting the human impact of the Medicaid scandal.

Doug Long, IQVIA's VP of industry relations, warns of a fragile U.S. healthcare system in his PBMI keynote, citing issues like low cancer screening rates, poor returns for generic/biosimilar manufacturers, and pharmacy deserts. He criticizes the Inflation Reduction Act, noting only 26 new drugs launched in 2023, and 22 FDA approvals. Long, retiring next May, highlights challenges in retail pharmacy, opioid overdoses, prescription rejections, and declining oncology drug launches.