It is no secret that we, as a nation, are experiencing extreme implications of opioid abuse. In this episode, Holly talks about a new program she is helping head, whose goal is to provide treatment to patients suffering from opioid addiction. This cutting-edge program utilizes a medication called buprenorphine to initiate treatment in the field and provide ongoing care for willing patients. While there is still much to learn, Holly discusses the research behind the foundation of this program, its successes thus far, and some learning points. The team discusses how this information is helping shape the current program and providing crucial data for future programs. This episode sheds light on current opioid abuse and overdose statistics, discussion around the steps of behavioral change, and relevant data on what treatment is proving most effective for individuals suffering from opioid addiction. 

Show Notes: 

• https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/ClinicalOpiateWithdrawalScale.pdf
• https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/resources/graphics/illicit-opioid.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fentanyl/pdf/Fentanyl_Fact_Sheet_508c.pdf
• https://www.oregon.gov/oem/pages/housing-emergency-executive-orders.aspx
• https://www.cmadocs.org/newsroom/news/view/ArticleId/50024/Congress-eliminates-need-for-waiver-to-treat-opioid-use-disorder
• https://www.chcf.org/publication/buprenorphine-overview-clinicians/
• https://sphweb.bumc.bu.edu/otlt/mph-modules/sb/behavioralchangetheories/behavioralchangetheories6.html
• https://bridgetotreatment.org/addiction-treatment/ca-bridge/
• https://www.ems1.com/overdose/pilot-program-allows-portland-first-responders-to-administer-buprenorphine
• https://www.opb.org/article/2024/01/18/portlands-first-responders-will-give-immediate-opiate-treatment-following-an-overdose/
• https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline