A Perspective from the Field: How Can We Empower the Next Generation of Physician to Heal the Opioid Epidemic?

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite the continued emphasis on prescription opioids in the media and rise in substance use seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, medical school graduates today are unprepared to turn the tide on the opioid epidemic. In this paper, we review the current state of these topics in undergraduate medical education and explore what an educationally driven, forward-thinking approach to “healing” problematic substance use in our society might entail. These initiatives are discussed with the ultimate purpose of detailing how the education of future clinicians is necessary to improve our outcomes with the epidemic. We offer four educational initiatives relating to (1) comprehensive pain management, (2) developing a natural history of SUD by uniting psychiatric and neurological perspectives (3) providing patient exposure and training opportunities (4) enhancing and standardizing care through evidence-based medicine. This perspective is contextualized with a brief discussion of the national climate and societal factors that act inseparably on the present crisis. In focusing our efforts on the next generation of physicians, we hope to reform and improve the practices of future providers and begin to elicit meaningful change.