MN Bridge Interview Series: EMS & the Opioid Crisis

Dr. Cole Pueringer is an addiction medicine and toxicology physician at Essentia Health in Duluth, MN. In this episode, he shares how his personal recovery journey informs his clinical work and leadership. We talk about the real barriers in rural communities, the gap between medical and recovery language, and what EMS and ED providers can do right now to make a difference. His message is clear: you don’t have to say the perfect thing—you just have to be genuine. Compassion and presence matter more than getting the words exactly right.

What is MN Bridge Interview Series: EMS & the Opioid Crisis?

The opioid crisis demands a stronger response from emergency care and EMS is uniquely positioned to lead. The MN Bridge podcast explores how EMS systems across Minnesota and the country are stepping into this role. This series highlights innovative strategies, local successes, and the evolving responsibilities of emergency providers. It’s a place for honest conversations, practical insights, and stories from the front lines of overdose response.