When Natural Disasters Strike, Another Crisis Hits Those Recovering From Opioid Addiction

Summary: When Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina, Toni Brewer lost power and water. She fled her home but soon realized a new nightmare: she only had three days of Suboxone left. This medicine stops her opioid cravings and keeps her in recovery. Without it, she was terrified of falling back into addiction.

Because of the storm, her doctor's office was down, and local pharmacies were empty or closed. Toni had to drive to another state and pay $130 out of pocket just to get her medicine. This problem happens a lot during natural disasters. Strict rules make it very hard for people to get their recovery medicines if they have to leave their home state. Now, doctors are asking the government to create emergency backup plans. They want to make sure people can easily get their life-saving medicines when severe weather strikes, so a natural disaster doesn't cause a personal one.

For more details, see KFF Health News at kffhealthnews.org/public-health/substance-use-disorder-treatment-natural-disasters-opioid-suboxone-emergency-supply/ (opens in new tab)