The COVID-19 pandemic introduced a variety of new factors into our daily lives, while also impacting existing epidemics. Unfortunately, the opioid epidemic in the United States was further exacerbated by the pandemic than we may have initially realized (The Tribune Editorial Team, 2020). With over 40 states reporting increased opioid related deaths since 2020, it is thought that the social distancing efforts, rise in unemployment, and economic instability because of the pandemic contributed to an increase in opioid and other substance abuse (The Tribune Editorial Team, 2020).

People who are struggling with an opioid addiction are struggling to find in-person assistance and are limited to less personal telehealth options (The Tribune Editorial Team, 2020). The isolation that comes with Covid-19 can cause increased anxiety, ultimately leading to continuous opioid usage (The Tribune Editorial Team, 2020).

Dr. Adam Ramsey, 2009 graduate from Avalon University School of Medicine, spoke with The Los Angeles Tribune Editorial Team in 2020 to elaborate on the connection between the COVID-19 pandemic and the US opioid epidemic. Dr. Ramsey, at the time of the writing of the Tribune article, held the position of Alt-Resident Representative to the Board of Directors at the New York State Academy of Family Physicians.

Avalon is continuously proud of our graduates and their contributions to society. Dr. Ramsey is a wonderful example of a doctor who is dealing with new and developing issues in the medical field. Furthermore, he is a tremendous example to Avalon’s current students and graduates of what can be achieved through diligence and hard work.

We, here at Avalon, are happy to announce that Dr. Ramsey will be continuing his work in the field of addiction medicine by pursuing a fellowship with Harvard University!

Congratulations Dr. Ramsey, you are an inspiration to all! We are cheering you on as you continue to do great things in the field of medicine.

Reference:

The Tribune Editorial Team. (2020, November 18). Dr. Adam Eid Ramsey Says ‘COVID-19 Exacerbates Opioid Epidemic in the US’. The Los Angeles Tribune.