Friday afternoon, Sam and I found ourselves having the privilege of presenting to the All Wales Police Drug Expert Witness Meeting.
This meeting involved senior Police Drug-Enforcement Experts coming together for a day of education, reflection and strategy on all things related to substance use in society.
We found the experience hugely valuable in bridging the gap(s) between legislation, patient needs and necessary enforcement of law. We are grateful that we were able to bring our patient stories and clinical perspective to an audience that can now cascade learning on this new field of medicine to front-line officers.
That is not to say it was a one-way conversation - the 'crowd' remained highly engaged and opinionated, giving us plenty to reflect on ourselves!
Key take-away messages for us included the importance of safety, particularly whilst driving - it was a humbling reminder that our emergency service are exposed on a daily basis to roadside tragedies. Other concerns included the potential for diversion, counterfeits and verification of patient prescriptions - all difficult questions with few straightforward answers.
We are pleased to have been included in this conversation and will continue to support our patients, the medical industry and legal processes as best we can.
A final huge thanks to the all of the police and emergency services for the work you do - and YES, there are discounts for 'Blue Light Card' holders!
Wishing you Health and Happiness!
Dr Dave and Sam
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