Region 4 Meeting

This presentation covered recovery housing and MOUD in the context of issues emerging in rural America resulting from the pandemic and its impact on the rates of SUD and drug overdose. Also, presenters discussed the impact of the pandemic on corrections and the actions of states in response to COVID as it affects those with SUD. Presenters gave an overview of how recovery housing in this context can be developed especially in rural areas.

This presentation discussed the evolution of North Carolina’s formerly siloed sectors: prevention, treatment, & recovery. The introduction of Recovery Community Center (RCC) funding helped to develop a network of community-based recovery support services. However, when one of NC’s strongest prevention coalitions received RCC funding, they took it to another level. Keeping strongly rooted in its prevention identity, they expanded their growth into authentic recovery support services and non-arrest diversion partnerships with local law enforcement and treatment providers. Implementation II grantee Wilson Substance Prevention Coalition illustrated some of its full continuum of care programming and how it has adapted to the pandemic’s challenges

The presenter reviewed considerations in engaging and treating individuals with stimulant use disorders and presented evidence-based treatment strategies relevant to rural communities addressing this growing problem.

Dr. Seale led a discussion on communicating OUD needs in your community, building MOUD practice capacity, and other considerations and lessons learned from his work with individuals in rural communities.

This workshop presented strategies to integrate HIV, hepatitis, and sexual health concerns into services for PWID. The session focused on communication skills, assessment techniques, and building motivation to make healthier choices. The presentation looked at programmatic and clinical level integration strategies and offered participants a chance to assess current service delivery models and develop a plan to enhance care.

Participants learned evidenced based harm reduction strategies to keep people who use drugs (PWUD) alive with reduced disease burden. Presenters discussed methods of engaging PWUD, linkages to MOUD, behavioral health and recovery supports for individuals ready for these supports

The presenters reviewed the structure and function of state substance use prevention systems, described the role and activities of the national prevention network, and highlighted rural prevention initiatives.

A Guide to Federal and Regional Resources.

Region 4 RCORP grantees share their experiences.

The presenter discussed why leadership is so important during these critical times, the intersections and choices facing leaders, and responsive approaches and engagement strategies for leaders.