Opioid addiction – both prescription and non-prescription – has reached crisis levels in the United States. The U.S. population represents just 5 percent of the global population, yet we consume 80 percent of the world’s opioids. This has led to tens of thousands of overdose deaths each year, and costs the economy $78.5 billion each year. The problem has worsened in recent years, and has been declared a national emergency.
In addition, doses of over-the-counter pain relievers are sold in the tens of billions each year. Tackling this problem is no easy feat. With millions of people misusing painkillers or turning to illegal forms of opioids like heroin to fulfill the needs of their addiction, creative, easily-accessible treatment options are needed to help people get back on their feet and regain control of their lives. Getting help in the current healthcare system can be difficult, as there are several hurdles patients and doctors need to clear in order to get effective treatment. As a result, many attempts at treating people with opioid addictions fail.
One possible solution, according to a number of medical experts, is leveraging the power of telemedicine. But how can remote care help addicts recover? And is it an effective solution to the opioid crisis?
