SOC 112 Module 7-2 Final Project

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Module 7-2 Final Project SOC-112 Introduction To Sociology Professor Yvonne Parsons Judy Johnson April 17, 2024

The opioid epidemic has had a profound impact on multiple aspects of society, including public health, the economy, and social structures. The most immediate and devastating impact of the opioid epidemic is the sharp increase in overdose deaths. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 500,000 people died from an overdose involving any opioid from 1999 to 2019 The epidemic has also contributed to the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C due to shared needle use among people who inject drugs. The opioid epidemic has resulted in significant healthcare costs related to overdose treatment, rehabilitation, and other medical complications arising from opioid misuse and has also led to substantial productivity loss due to premature death, disability, and reduced work capacity among those struggling with addiction. The opioid crisis has had a significant impact on families, with an increase in the number of children entering foster care due to parental substance abuse and has also strained the criminal justice system, with increases in drug-related arrests, incarcerations, and court cases. The opioid epidemic has had far-reaching consequences that extend beyond individual health outcomes, affecting the economy and social structures in profound ways. It's a complex issue that requires comprehensive, multi-faceted solutions (CDC 2020). The opioid epidemic affects a wide range of individuals across various demographics. Individuals with chronic pain are often prescribed opioids for pain management, which can lead to dependency and addiction. Young adults and teenagers are particularly susceptible due to peer pressure and the misuse of prescription drugs. Low-income communities often have less access to quality healthcare and addiction treatment services. Many veterans suffer from chronic pain and mental health issues, making them more susceptible to opioid misuse. Doctors and nurses are

often caught in the difficult position of needing to manage their patients' pain while also avoiding contributing to opioid misuse (CDC 2020). Public perception of the opioid epidemic is generally negative, with many people recognizing it as a serious public health crisis. However, opinions vary on how to best address the issue. Some believe stricter regulations on prescription opioids are necessary, while others advocate for more accessible and affordable addiction treatment services. There are several debates surrounding the opioid epidemic. Some argue that doctors overprescribe opioids, while others believe that patients with chronic pain need these medications to function. There is a debate over whether addiction treatment services are accessible and affordable enough for those who need them. Some believe that opioid misuse should be treated as a criminal issue, while others argue it should be treated as a public health issue. There is ongoing debate about the role pharmaceutical companies have played in the opioid epidemic, with some arguing they should be held accountable for aggressive marketing practices. The opioid epidemic is a complex issue that affects many different groups of people and has sparked numerous debates about the best way to address it (Smith 2020). The opioid epidemic is a complex crisis with multiple contributing factors, including clinician biases. These biases can manifest explicitly or implicitly and have significant impacts on patient care and health outcomes. There are documented misperceptions that African Americans may experience less pain or have greater propensity for addiction. These biases can lead to disparities in pain management and addiction treatment, where African Americans and other minorities may receive less adequate pain relief or be underrepresented in addiction treatment programs (Keister, et at, 2021).

Patients with low health literacy, limited English proficiency, or misunderstandings about medication instructions may be labeled as noncompliant. This can result in a lack of appropriate care and support for these individuals, further exacerbating health disparities. The fear of criminal charges or loss of parental rights can also deter patients from reporting opioid use, leading to under treatment or lack of treatment for addiction (APA 2023). Some specific examples include a study that found Latino and African Americans are significantly less likely to receive opioid analgesics following a major surgical procedure than whites. Another study highlighted the role of health care system racism in driving the opioid epidemic, resulting in increased addiction and overdoses in low-income white areas, while communities of color face insufficient treatment. These examples underscore the need for cultural competency and awareness of biases in healthcare to ensure equitable treatment for cultural competency and awareness of biases in healthcare to ensure equitable treatment for all patients, particularly in the context of the opioid epidemic (APA 2023). Through an exploration of cultural beliefs and biases, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the opioid epidemic. It has become evident that individuals grappling with opioid addiction often face unfair stereotyping and biases. These preconceptions can deter them from seeking treatment. It is crucial to recognize that every person, regardless of race, social status, or literacy, deserves access to compassionate care and support. The impact of the opioid crisis extends beyond individuals with opioid substance use disorder. Public health agencies have a positive relationship, they play a crucial role in prevention, education, and awareness related to opioid misuse. These agencies actively work to prevent opioid misuse, raise awareness, and provide resources for affected individuals and their

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