Season 4: Episode 16 | Dr. James Dunford, Medical Director, McAlister

GAPTIVISTS LIVE HEREDr. James Dunford, Medical Director at the McAllister Institute, discussed his career and the institute's work on addiction care. He highlighted his transition from emergency medicine to addressing chronic illnesses, particularly addiction, and the importance of humanism in medicine. Dr. Dunford emphasized the need for better integration of mental health and substance use services, noting the rise of fentanyl and methamphetamine use. He also mentioned the institute's Walk for Sobriety event on September 5 at Liberty Station. Dr. Dunford advocated for increased community engagement and education in behavioral health, urging young people to explore career opportunities in the field.Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community.About The San Diego Council On LiteracySince 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community.To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.orgAbout LIFE: San DiegoLiteracy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.  About Cloudcast Media  "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.  For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.  This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mukund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.