Bridging the gap between neuroscience research and policy
Written by Ariana Pirzadeh, B.S. Edited by Sarah Banducci, Ph.D. and Rachel Haake, Ph.D. Age is just a number, or so the old adage goes, and a recent study may confirm it. In the United States, chronological age determines eligibility for social security, healthcare subsidies, and retirement. However, those who will actually be in need…
Written by Carol Gianessi, Ph.D. Edited Sarah Banducci, Ph.D., Ryan Bell, Ph.D., and Rachel Haake, Ph.D. June 9, 2021 Abstract Opioid overdose deaths have significantly increased over the past two decades in the United States and within North Carolina specifically [1]. For every opioid overdose death there are approximately 30 non-fatal overdoses, occasions that may…
Written by Rachel Haake, M.A. Edited by Sarah Banducci, Ph.D. and Ryan Bell, Ph.D. Since March of 2020, COVID-19 has ravaged the United States, both exposing and exacerbating pre-existing crises like the “Deaths of Despair” epidemic—the increasing rates of death by suicide and drug overdose among US adults. Sustained recovery from the pandemic will require…
Written by Seth Hurley, Ph.D. December 2nd, 2019 Abstract Senate Bill 544 aims to provide improved access to non-opioid treatment alternatives for pain. Opioids are very effective pain relievers; however, they also have additional negative side-effects. Over-prescription and reliance on opioids for pain management has led to a nation-wide opioid epidemic that has severely impacted…
Written by Seth Hurley, Ph.D. October 28, 2019 Abstract The Opioid Prescription and Treatment Opt Out Act allows individuals to voluntarily opt out of receiving opioid medications. The bill was drafted in response to over-prescription of opioids in North Carolina. Prescription opioid medications have an addiction potential and over-prescription of opioids has contributed to an…