West Virginia's New Drug Czar Brings Personal Experience to Opioid Crisis Fight

Dr. Stephen Loyd, a former opioid addict, aims to leverage his recovery journey to combat the state's high overdose rates.

Dr. Stephen Loyd, West Virginia's new drug czar, has been sober for two decades and has extensive experience in addiction medicine.
Loyd has testified against opioid manufacturers and distributors, contributing to major settlements, including nearly $1 billion awarded to West Virginia.
He plans to advise on the distribution of settlement funds to support addiction treatment, recovery, and prevention programs.
Loyd's personal battle with opioid addiction began during his residency, leading to a severe dependency before achieving sobriety through treatment.
He seeks to reform addiction treatment by expanding access to medications like methadone and suboxone and measuring meaningful outcomes in recovery programs.