Newsy, Scripps Washington Bureau launch investigation into opioid crisis with new series, "Getting A Fix"

CINCINNATI, Sept. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Newsy, the next-generation national news network, and the Scripps Washington Bureau have launched "Getting A Fix," a new series focused on their joint investigation into the opioid crisis.

The series presents an on-the-ground look at solutions to the devastating opioid epidemic in the United States. In this series, Newsy and the Scripps Washington Bureau investigative team research the emergence of synthetic opioids, like fentanyl and carfentanil, while providing an in-depth look at who is trying to solve the crisis and how.

"Opioid abuse continues to decimate American communities, yet we're still struggling to come up with an answer to the problem," said Blake Sabatinelli, general manager of Newsy. "With 'Getting A Fix,' Newsy and the Scripps Washington Bureau are providing the context and perspective needed to truly understand the problem and work toward solutions."

"Carfentanil and other synthetic opioids are driving forces in this epidemic," said Ellen Weiss, vice president and Washington bureau chief. "Our investigation into what first responders, local, state and national officials know about where these compounds come from and the true extent of their impact provides the public with a powerful set of facts to help address this growing crisis. Together, we've created a series we hope will further our audience's understanding of one of the most prevalent issues impacting people across the country today."

"Getting A Fix" features five video episodes, each one less than 5 minutes:

• In episode 1, Newsy examines a medical solution as doctors re-evaluate pain management to avoid overprescribing opioids.
• Episode 2 explores a local solution through The Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program, or ODMAP, which helps first responders collect overdose data in real time.
• Episode 3 researches a national solution, through the DEA Special Testing and Research Laboratory's identification of new synthetic drugs is helping law enforcement.
• In episode 4, the Scripps Washington Bureau investigates carfentanil and how those on the front lines, EMS, police, the DEA/Customs and Border patrol are confronting the deadly synthetic drug.
• Episode 5 reviews the significant spike in carfentanil-related deaths and the challenges in tracking how great a problem carfentanil has become.

New episodes will air weekly on any of Newsy's channels on cable and over-the-top platforms including YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. "Getting A Fix" also will be online at newsy.com and via the Newsy apps for iOS, Android and Kindle Fire. The series also will air on Scripps local TV stations throughout the month of September. For more information, visit newsy.com/gettingafix.

About Newsy
Newsy is the next-generation national news network that provides "news with the why," built to inform and engage by delivering the top stories across every platform. Its content is available on cable; on over-the-top services including Hulu, Roku, YouTube TV, Apple TV, Sling TV, Watchable from Comcast, Pluto TV, Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast; and on connected television including Xumo. Newsy is also available via its mobile apps and at newsy.com.

About Scripps  
The E.W. Scripps Company (NYSE: SSP) serves audiences and businesses through a growing portfolio of television, radio and digital media brands. With 33 television stations, Scripps is one of the nation's largest independent TV station owners. Scripps runs an expanding collection of local and national digital journalism and content businesses, including Newsy, the next-generation national news network; and podcast industry leader Midroll Media. Scripps produces original programming including "Pickler & Ben," runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades to the motto, "Give light and the people will find their own way."

SOURCE The E.W. Scripps Company

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