“Through community outreach and engagement, we hope that Dying in Vein will bring awareness and understanding to this deadly public health crisis,” said MacKenzie. “By breaking down stigmas and misconceptions, and bringing addiction out of the closet, more people will have access to the resources they need to get well. We are grateful to DOCUTAH for giving us the chance to screen this important film to its audience. In 2017, we hope to have screened in over 100 communities across the United States.”
This month, Utah-based Intermountain Healthcare has pledged to reduce by 40 percent the average amount of opioids prescribed per acute pain prescription at its 22 hospitals and 180 clinics by the end of 2018. Intermountain is the first U.S. health system to formally announce such a significant and specific amount of reduction as a target.
“Patients with acute or chronic pain conditions will still be able to get the medications they need,” said Doug Smith, MD, associate medical director for Intermountain Healthcare. “We will ensure patients have access to the full range of options to manage pain.”
Intermountain will introduce new tools and policies for its caregivers to reduce the number of opioid tablets the organization prescribes by more than 5 million annually.
“Currently, nationwide, providers tend to write prescriptions for more opioids than patients need, and large quantities of the medications are often left over after the need for pain relief is past,” said Dr. Smith. “We will follow best practices in prescribing so the medications prescribed more closely match the needs of patients.” Some studies have shown that two-thirds of all opioids misused and abused come from family members or friends.
Jenny Mackenzie, Ph.D. is an award-winning documentary filmmaker based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her documentary films, educational videos, and Public Service Announcements bring awareness and social change to a wide variety of issues. Jenny is also an inspirational trainer and speaker who captivates and motivates audiences across the globe.
More information about all the films included in this year’s DOCUTAH Festival, special events and ticketing may be found at docutah.com.
