Drug overdoses continue to increase at record-high rates throughout the state of Ohio, causing about one Ohioan to die every five hours in 2011, according to figures released by the state Department of Health.
Prescription painkillers and a worsening heroin problem have caused accidental overdoses to jump 14 percent to 1,765 from 2010 statewide. Such overdoses remain the leading cause of accidental deaths in the state, ahead of car crashes and falls, a trend that began in 2007.
These dire statistics come at a time when Ohio has launched numerous efforts to crack down on illegal prescription painkiller use and distribution. Midway through 2011, Ohio enacted a law meant to reduce the number of pills-on-demand clinics, while changes in Medicaid rules are making it easier for doctors to prescribe medication that helps addicts beat the craving for drugs like heroin and painkillers.
"It's like when we put more cars on the road, we're going to see more car crashes," said Christy Beeghly, the Health Department's Violence and Injury Prevention Program administrator. "So we put more pills out there, we have more addiction and ultimately more overdoses." Read the full details here:
Ohio sees record-high overdose deaths in 2011
An average of five Ohioans die every day from drug overdoses, more than any other type of accidental death. This demonstrates the significant danger that exists when doctors don’t hesitate to prescribe narcotics.
If you or a family member believe you have a medical malpractice case, contact Crandall & Pera Law today for a free case evaluation. Crandall & Pera Law is available to help answer your questions and guide you in determining your next steps.