Episode 22: Dr. Jason Kirby shares his journey from emergency medicine to addiction care, and why fitness matters in recovery

In this episode, Jason Kirby, DO, MBA, FASAM, shares what led him to the field of addiction medicine and describes a particular turning point in his career path. Dr. Kirby discusses the importance of individualized treatment, the similarities between fitness and recovery communities, and how his interest in human behavior influenced his career journey. He stresses the critical importance of self-care among physicians and other care providers, the benefits of physician health programs, and addressing the four facets of well-being. Dr. Kirby shares his thoughts about the stigma associated with addiction and the critical role education plays in reducing stigma and promoting recovery. He discusses his efforts as president of the Tennessee Society of Addiction Medicine (TnSAM) to address stigma and other issues and shares his primary goals in this leadership role. Dr. Kirby highlights some impactful moments during his career and offers advice for the next generation of addiction medicine providers. Dr. Jason Kirby serves as the chief medical officer for Landmark Recovery and Praxis by Landmark Recovery and is currently the president of TnSAM. He is an expert in population health policy, healthcare economics, and human behavior and is dual board-certified in addiction medicine and family medicine. He received his medical degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and his MBA from Point Park University. Dr. Kirby also is a fellow and leader of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), having served or currently serving on its Finance, ASAM Criteria Strategy Steering, Annual Conference Program Planning, and Levels of Care Certification Oversight Committees. Recently, he co-authored the withdrawal management chapter for The ASAM Criteria, 4th Edition. He previously served as medical director of addiction and recovery services at St. Peter’s Health Partners in Albany, NY, and practiced at St. Peter’s Hospital as their chief of behavioral health. Prior to that, Dr. Kirby served as medical director for Gateway Rehabilitation Center and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Medical Management and Policy Division. Originally from West Virginia, Dr. Kirby is also an avid woodworker, competitive CrossFitter, husband, and father to three amazing little boys. Links: Tennessee Society of Addiction Medicine (TnSAM) American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) The ASAM Criteria, 4th Edition Find your State Physician Health program CrossFit   If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you are not along. Treatment is available and recovery is possible. Visit ASAM’s Patient Resources page for more information. The information shared in this podcast episode is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or ASAM management.