Loma Linda University Behavioral Medical Center news
BMC faculty member appears on VH1
Donald J. Kurth, MD, director, chemical dependency program, Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, was interviewed by VH1 for the show "The Secret World of Hollywood Doctors." The show premiered on Tuesday, May 4, 2004, with a second airing on Thursday, May 6. It is part of the series "VH1 News Presents."
"The Secret World of Hollywood Doctors" examined the culture of medicine in Hollywood. Through reporting and anecdotes, viewers learned how doctors approached by celebrity patients are seduced by the idea of being relied upon by the famous.
"My part [in the show] is small, but significant because I am the medical-scientific authority," shares Dr. Kurth. "My testimony repeatedly provides the backbone for the basic premise that doctors, even Hollywood doctors, must practice sound, safe medicine." The show highlights how some doctors cross the line. Prescription drug abuse by some celebrities suggests that a growing number of stars are getting hooked on prescription pills. The show questions if doctors who prescribe pills to addicted stars are becoming modern day dealers.
VH1 sent a producer and interviewer from New York to tape Dr. Kurth's interview with a film crew from Los Angeles.
"Three-and-a-half hours of taping produced only four or five brief film clips for the show," relates Dr. Kurth. "It took a lot of work and preparation, but it was worth it to get the word out that doctors must be responsible when dealing with the disease of addiction."
[Top] [email this page] [LLU Behavioral Medicine Center]
University | Medical Center | LLUAHSC home | Search & index | News & events | Employment | Contact | Our mission
Revised June 17, 2004
Send comments and questions to webmaster@univ.llu.edu
URL: http://www.llu.edu/