Medical bias denied addiction care to Oregon patient who later died

A 26-year-old addiction patient died after being discharged from an Oregon hospital, illustrating how medical bias leads to deadly inadequate care for substance use disorder patients. Hospital staff called police to remove Jean Descamps, refused treatment, saying he was malingering. He was later found unresponsive and died. Over 80% of Americans needing addiction care receive none, despite effective medications like buprenorphine. Experts cite deep-rooted stigma, legacy of drug war, and inadequate medical training as barriers; doctors often avoid these patients. The Oregon hospital later promised changes, but state investigators warned similar events could occur.