Revolutionizing Care: How Systems Impact Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Episode Overview
Dr. Altice and Dr. Madden emphasize the importance of reducing demands on patients and clinicians. The conversation touches on the need to combat stigma among treatment providers and to reinforce the message that communities care about the well-being of individuals struggling with substance use disorders. The guests reflect on the urgent need for a SWAT approach in addressing this public health emergency, drawing on their experiences in various settings to highlight the significance of making treatment readily available and reducing wait times. The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude for the impactful work being done at local, national, and international levels, generating hope for a future where systems adapt to provide more effective and accessible care for individuals in need.
We aren't stuck with the same responses and the same challenges that we can change the system and get a different outcome.
Imagine a world where accessing treatment for substance use disorders is as simple as walking into your local clinic. In this episode of 'Airing Addiction', hosts Lisa Blanchard and Jesse Chaison sit down with Dr. Rick Altice and Dr. Lynn Madden to discuss how system implementation can transform the lives of those battling substance use disorders (SUD). Dr. Madden, with her focus on closing treatment gaps and improving service access, and Dr.
Altice, a leading figure in medicine and public health, bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. The conversation dives deep into their collaborative efforts across five states to enhance systems of care, particularly in the context of HIV, opioid addiction, hepatitis C, mental health issues, and incarceration. They stress the importance of viewing individuals holistically and integrating primary care with specialized treatments.
By reducing the demands on both patients and clinicians, they aim to make treatment more accessible and less daunting. One of the standout points is their commitment to breaking down barriers to care. From reducing wait times to providing urgent care services, Dr. Altice and Dr. Madden highlight the need for a SWAT team approach to tackle this public health crisis head-on.
They also touch on the vital role of combatting stigma within the healthcare system, ensuring that communities show genuine care for those struggling with SUD. Looking beyond the local impact, the discussion extends to their upcoming initiatives in Peru. By applying successful strategies from addiction treatment to HIV care, they hope to bring services closer to home in a safe and responsible manner.
This episode is a testament to the incredible work being done at various levels to create a future where effective and compassionate care is within everyone's reach. Tune in to 'Airing Addiction' for an eye-opening conversation that not only sheds light on the current challenges but also offers hope for a more inclusive and supportive healthcare system.