"We intend this conference to highlight the rapidly increasing abuse of prescription medicines across the state," said U.S. Attorney Christopher Crofts. "It's a growing problem that is often overlooked and frequently misunderstood."
The theme of the forum will be "When prescriptions kill...," and will draw in a variety of speakers including Gov. Matt Mead; Dr. Raphael Miguel; Alex Hunter, former Boulder, Colo. district attorney; Jackie Long, narcotic enforcement; Assistant U.S. Attorney Bob Murray.
"Because prescription drugs are an important and legal part of our lives when used properly, many people believe they can't be dangerous," Crofts said "Unfortunately, when they are used inappropriately they can be quite harmful and even deadly."
The group putting the event on said speakers and panel discussions will cover subjects such as responsible prescribing, stories of personal loss, recovery, law enforcement concerns and a description of the problem and its ramifications in Wyoming.
"For example, we expect speakers to discuss how the practice of over-prescribing painkillers leads to doctor shopping, drug theft and obtaining prescriptions fraudulently, as well as how the use of hardcore drugs such as heroin can result when abusers are unable to obtain prescription drugs," Crofts said.
The forum will be presented by the Rx Abuse Stakeholders Group, which represents the health care community, law enforcement, government and community members. The group regularly meets to address the rising illegal use and abuse of prescription medications in Wyoming.
The conference is free to attend, but participants must register by Sept. 14. Lunch will be provided for the forum, which runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the forum or to register, please contact whenprescriptionskill@wyo.gov or barbara.warburton@usdoj.gov.
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