MN Bridge Interview Series: EMS & the Opioid Crisis

Dr. Brian Grahan is an internal medicine and addiction medicine physician at Hennepin Healthcare. In this episode, he walks us through the realities of addiction medicine, including what it’s like to be a patient in a clinic, options for medications for opioid use disorder, and how care is structured. He focuses on the profound brain changes that occur in opioid use disorder—and how these changes affect decision-making, motivation, and the ability to engage in care. Dr. Grahan also shares why he sees EMS as a critical partner in initiating buprenorphine and expanding access to evidence-based treatment where and when patients need it most.

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.