Online gambling

During March Madness, public officials and experts seek solutions for online gambling impact

March Madness is a time-honored ritual for millions of Americans who love to watch college basketball and bet on the hotly competitive tournament games. It also can be a difficult time for people suffering from gambling addiction.

Neighborhood 'micro' hospital open in Poconos

Sarah Scinto | WVIA News

Monroe County residents now have access to a neighborhood hospital located in Bartonsville. Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, added Lehigh Valley Hospital- Pocono Creek to its network of neighborhood hospitals.

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NEWS VOICES: Online gambling growing in popularity, impact

Sarah Scinto | WVIA News

This week, WVIA's Sarah Scinto and Roger DuPuis discuss the popularity and impact of online gambling and sports betting. The rise of sports betting in the U.S. following a landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling fueled significant increases in gambling addiction.

A group of friends is seen watching basketball in this stock image. Approximately $3.3 billion is expected to be legally wagered on the NCAA basketball tournaments with U.S. sportsbooks this year, according to an estimate by the American Gaming Association.

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ONLINE BETTING: Public officials, experts seek solutions for iGaming's impacts on Pennsylvanians

Roger DuPuis | WVIA News

Online Betting: Gambling With Our Future? is a three-day WVIA News series focusing on the emotional and financial costs of online gambling in Pennsylvania as it surges in popularity. Today's story looks at how experts and leaders are seeking harm reduction solutions.

NextGen Counseling Project Director Jon Wasp looks over paperwork at the center's office in Dickson City. The practice is open to youths ages 12-19, and Wasp says that young people are increasingly being drawn into the world of online betting. 'Introduction to gambling happens early,' Wasp said.

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ONLINE BETTING: Pa. counselors see more young people developing gambling habits earlier, through a range of platforms

Roger DuPuis | WVIA News

'Online Betting: Gambling With Our Future?' is a three-day WVIA News series focusing on the emotional and financial costs of online gambling in Pennsylvania as it surges in popularity. Today's story looks at how online gambling, especially sports betting, is a powerful lure for young people.

Roy Gilgallon, CEO of Turning Point Alternative Living Solutions, a Scranton-based addiction treatment center, describes himself as a recovering problem gambler who is the son and grandson of problem gamblers and the father of a problem gambler. He sees a new generation of gamblers who don’t need to place illicit bets with bookies but through the efficient anonymity of computers and personal mobile devices that are almost never out of reach. 'Unlike substances, gambling is ubiquitous. It's everywhere all the time,' Gilgallon said. 'It's on the phone, the gas station, the grocery store. You cannot get away from it.'

Local

ONLINE BETTING: Treatment professionals see problem gambling cases rise as digital gaming surges in popularity

Roger DuPuis | WVIA News

'Online Betting: Gambling With Our Future?' is a three-day WVIA News series focusing on the emotional and financial costs of online gambling in Pennsylvania as it surges in popularity. Today's story looks at how problem gambling cases have risen as digital gambling transforms an industry.