Larissa K. Laskowski, DO

As an assistant professor of emergency medicine and medical toxicology in the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Emergency Medicine at NYU Langone, I am deeply committed to addressing the complex health and social challenges faced by society today. At the core of my work is the belief that every individual deserves to be treated with respect, compassion, and dignity. Every day, my colleagues and I provide care for patients of all ages, backgrounds, and means; I am grateful for this privilege.

I specialize in emergency medicine and medical toxicology, with a particular focus on substance misuse and overdose prevention. As the founding director of the Prevention Education Partnership (PEP), I am committed to mitigating harms associated with drug misuse among teens and young adults. Our program, “PEP Talks,” has reached thousands of students, parents, and educators, equipping them with knowledge about substance use and overdose prevention. In response to the alarming increase in fentanyl-related teen overdoses, I lead a New York State–sponsored Opioid Overdose Prevention Program, which provides training and resources to New York City schools to help them prepare for and respond to opioid emergencies.

Throughout my career, I have focused on proactive healthcare engagement and community education. I believe in empowering both patients and communities through education and collaboration. My goal is to help prevent substance misuse and related harms by delivering impactful public health programs that make a tangible difference. Whether through direct patient care or education, I strive to ensure those I serve feel informed, supported, cared for, and heard.

My journey into medicine was inspired by a desire to make a meaningful impact on public health. I actively engage in research, particularly focusing on the public health impact of emerging drugs and novel approaches to strengthen community resilience amidst the opioid crisis. I am dedicated to advancing the fields of emergency medicine, medical toxicology, and school health education to ensure that our communities, especially youth, are equipped with the knowledge and tools to stay safe, healthy, and out of the emergency department.