The International Conference on Opioids is underway in Boston today. Rhode Islanders are well represented at the event dedicated to educating doctors about the dangers and benefits of these painkillers.

From Boston, Martha Bebinger reports that New England States are focused on removing heroin from the streets and limiting opioid prescriptions in the fight against opioid abuse and overdose.

Governor Gina Raimondo is among five New England governors slated to speak at the conference. Co-chairing the event is Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz, recently hired chief medical officer for Eleanor Slater Hospital. She’s presenting research on treating opioid addiction in patients who have chronic pain.

The event comes at a time when New England states are introducing measures to reduce opioid prescribing and provide more access to treatment for people who have become addicted.