There is an old saying that dates back to antiquity, “the dose makes the poison.” That is true of many things in life. Risk is relative. There are undoubtedly numerous substances that have negative effects on humans even in a small way or are benign unless ingested in significant amounts. Alcohol is one example. My coffee creamer that I use to make café lattes every morning is probably another substance that should only be consumed in moderation.
Category: Doctors & Hospitals
Drug to Reduce Overdose Deaths Likely Increased Drug Use and Crime
Nearly 110,000 people died in 2023 from a drug overdose, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That is around 300 people per day. Opioid abuse and overdose deaths are growing problems in the United States. In recent years fentanyl has flooded the illicit drug market. Virtually all prescription opioids bought off the street are counterfeit with fentanyl as the active ingredient. Many illicit drugs, like cocaine and heroin, are also laced with fentanyl to boost the strength.
Health Care Disruption Takes Another Hit
Walmart has made the unfortunate decision to shutter its health clinics, the big box retailer announced. The decision was apparently sudden. Only about a month ago Walmart announced plans to add 19 more stores in 2024. In all Walmart will close all 51 of its physician-staffed clinics. Walmart is also closing its telemedicine portals as well.
Wednesday Links
- Energy costs are 40% higher under Biden.
- The down side of the job market: 52% of college grads are working in jobs that don’t require the degrees they earned, a year after graduation.
- Scott Alexander responds to Robin Hanson on: Does health care matter?
- Robin responds to the response.
- Why is Walmart shutting down all of its Texas health clinics?
- More reasons to support the Wuhan lab theory.