ADN reporter Michelle Theriault Boots says the deaths have gone mostly unnoticed by Anchorage residents in recent years.
Alcohol & Substance Abuse
Alaska overdoses and deaths rise as global pandemic overshadows state opioid epidemic
Alaska had 146 opioid overdose deaths last year, the most ever reported.
Fairbanks therapeutic courts focus on addiction treatment, not criminal punishment
The recidivism rate for people convicted of drug and alcohol crimes and sent to jail is normally about 50%. The Fairbanks therapeutic courts report a rate of 5% to 7%.
A pandemic rule change could make it easier to get treatment for opioid addiction in Alaska
Buprenorphine typically requires an in-person visit for a prescription because it is categorized as a controlled substance. It works to block withdrawal symptoms but doesn’t get users high like heroin or fentanyl do.
Wasilla doctor pleads guilty to drug charge after illegal opioid prescriptions contributed to deaths
Chisholm’s illegal prescriptions “significantly contributed” to the accidental deaths of five patients, who are listed in the document only by their initials, according to the plea agreement.
State updates guidance for treating opioid use disorders
One change is that now there is no time limit on treatment.
Juneau Assembly committee OKs budgets for another year of proactive medical services team, child care subsidies
The CCFR fire chief said the program that provides general care and follow-up care in the field is one of the most exciting programs he’s seen after almost 30 years in fire service.
Half-pound of heroin, hundreds of pills seized at Ketchikan airport
Authorities arrested 27-year-old woman from Prince of Wales Island who allegedly brought the drugs in on an Alaska Airlines flight from Seattle.
Feds arrest 2 after seizing Fentanyl headed to Utqiagvik
Inspectors found 2.4 ounces of blue “M30” pills that contained fentanyl hidden in a vacuum-sealed bag inside the motor housing of an Oster blender.
Juneau’s substance abuse treatment clinic reopens with limited capacity as demand grows
Although Rainforest Recovery Center will limit the number of patients for now, providers say the need in and outside the community is growing.