9/11/2019
WHAT: In an effort to address the stigma associated with opioid use disorder and make all health care employees aware of the resources available to address the opioid epidemic, UPMC will be hosting “Opioids: The Fight Continues.”
The event is aimed at empowering UPMC staff systemwide — from clinicians to executives — to make a positive impact toward ending this crisis. UPMC’s educational conference coincides with the launch of the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s “Stop Overdoses in PA: Get Help Now” week.
WHY: The opioid epidemic is a leading public health crisis in Pennsylvania and across the country. Opioid misuse has led to devastating consequences for the people who struggle with addiction, their families and their communities. Since January 1, 2018, there have been nearly 16,000 emergency department visits for opioid overdoses in Pennsylvania and 4,413 overdose deaths last year alone.
WHO:
- Tami Minnier, chief quality officer, UPMC.
- Rachel Levine, M.D., secretary of health, Pennsylvania Department of Health.
- Vanila M. Singh, M.D., immediate former chief medical officer, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Brian Dempsey, intelligence specialist, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
- Michael Lynch, M.D., medical director, Pittsburgh Poison Center and substance use disorder services at UPMC Health Plan.
- Joe DelSardo, husband and father in long-term recovery.
WHEN: Monday, Sept. 16, 2019
- 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., lecture
- 12:30 to 1 p.m., media availability with some of the speakers
WHERE: Herberman Conference Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Pavilion, 5230 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, 15232.
Note to Media: To cover this event, prior arrangements must be made by contacting Allison Hydzik at 412-647-9975 or HydzikAM@upmc.edu. A livestream will be made available to reporters who inquire about covering the event remotely.
