RIESTER Joins the Fight Against Opioid Abuse

Opioid abuse is becoming an epidemic in the United States, with drug overdoses as the leading cause of death among Americans under 50. Many attribute these deaths to illegal drugs like heroin, but prescription painkillers have been on the rise over the past couple of decades.

Painkillers are often prescribed for chronic pain such as fibromyalgia, headaches, PTSD and more. Drugs dull the pain for a few hours but don’t eliminate underlying issues. To combat opioid abuse and help chronic sufferers permanently manage their pain, RIESTER teamed up with Dr. Ben Bobrow, Professor of Emergency Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine and Director of Pain Management at San Carlos Apache Healthcare, for The Pain Project.

The Pain Project offers patients science-based methods to deal with chronic pain through telemedicine. Licensed providers focus on the reasons behind the pain and give patients steps to take in their everyday lives to eliminate suffering.

Tele-Pain therapy sessions benefit people who cannot easily visit a physical office due to geographic location or scheduling. Patients can make and have appointments from their home, office or wherever is convenient, so people are less likely to cancel and more likely to get the help they need. The virtual therapy visit creates a seamless experience and comfort level not replicated in a doctor’s office.

RIESTER has a long history of advocating health services and education. The agency works with the Arizona Department of Health Services on tobacco and drug prevention, women’s and children’s wellness and more.  The Pain Project is the latest opportunity to educate the public and provide more accessible healthcare through innovative ideas and the latest technology. RIESTER is proud to remain at the forefront of a healthier future for all.