Transcript of Lorena Rey’s Univision Interview Video in English

[Fernanda Kelly is on the screen, she has brown hair and is wearing a purple shirt. Behind her, a screen says “Elige Cambiar California” which is Choose Change’s name in Spanish]

Fernanda: Hello friends, today I am joined by Lorena Ray who is going to tell us about the opioid crisis. Welcome, Lorena.

[Lorena Ray joins on a split screen with Fernanda. She is wearing a red shirt and black glasses.]

Lorena: Thank you, Fernanda.

Fernanda: Lorena, what is Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

Lorena: It is the use of FDA-approved drugs to treat people with opioid and alcohol use disorders. Addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease, meaning it has no cure and patients will need to manage their symptoms. The good news is that this treatment is as effective as the treatment of other chronic diseases.

Fernanda: And what can we do to help with this public health crisis?

Lorena: Well, start by talking to friends and family members who could potentially have an opioid or substance use disorder. It is essential to provide support and recognize the role that stigma plays in recognizing that a person has a disorder and needs treatment.

Fernanda: And where can we find more information?

Lorena: At ChooseChangeCA.org you will find several resources and places where you can go.

[The screen says “Para mas informacion visite eligecambiarca.org” which means “For more information, visit ChooseChangeCA.org]

Fernanda: Thank you very much Lorena for being with us.

Announcer: Presented by Choose Change California and the MAT Campaign.