For those who suffer illness or injury, medications that relieve debilitating pain are miracles of modern science. However, the dark side of the miracles looms larger and more dangerous than anyone could have predicted just a decade ago. Nationally and locally, we face rampant epidemics of both opioid addiction and overdose - not of street drugs acquired in back alleys, but of medications prescribed for legitimate reasons by trusted doctors.

So, how did we get here?  More importantly, what can we do about this health crisis that is devastating families and communities, taxing an over-stressed health care system, and threatening public safety?

These questions and more will be examined from the medical, social, and legislative perspectives in a special Rhode Island PBS production on Friday, June 17, 2016, from 7-9 p.m.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE | community conversations

Invited Panelists
(in alphabetical order)

Elinore McCance-Katz, M.D. 
Chief Medical Officer 
Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare,
Developmental Disabilities, and Hospitals (BHDDH)

Papatya Tankut, R.Ph.
Vice President, Pharmacy Affairs  
CVS Health

Fred Trapassi, Jr.
Vice President, Rhode Island and 
Eastern Massachusetts Operations 
Phoenix House

Sheldon Whitehouse 
United States Senator for Rhode Island (D)

You are invited to the studio at 7 p.m. for light refreshments and light conversation with our panelists and show host, Nicole Muri. At 7:45, we move into the studio to prepare for live broadcast from 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. Plus, the panel will take questions from the audience. (You may submit your question in advance on the registration form.)

This event is free and open to the public, but audience seating in the studio is limited. Advance registration is required by June 10. 

PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE | community conversations is made possible by CVS Health.

Register Now!