Passionate about combating the opioid epidemic, Dr. Ward focuses on identifying and promoting policies that can effectively reduce its devastating impact on society. Recognizing that the national overdose crisis continues to claim approximately 100,000 American lives annually—and is a leading cause of the recent decline in life expectancy—he is committed to initiatives that aim to heal and strengthen individuals, families, and communities affected by this ongoing tragedy. Dr. Ray Ward is a physician and a public servant serving as a Representative in the Utah Legislature. With a unique perspective shaped by his dual roles in healthcare and politics, Dr. Ward is deeply invested in shaping effective health care policies. In the legislature, he participates in the discussion and implementation of policies, while in his clinic, he witnesses firsthand how policies affect individuals and communities—sometimes positively, and occasionally proving counterproductive.Passionate about combating the opioid epidemic, Dr. Ward focuses on identifying and promoting policies that can effectively reduce its devastating impact on society. Recognizing that the national overdose crisis continues to claim approximately 100,000 American lives annually—and is a leading cause of the recent decline in life expectancy—he is committed to initiatives that aim to heal and strengthen individuals, families, and communities affected by this ongoing tragedy. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx