Breaking Barriers: Dr. Hendrée Jones on Women's Health in Opioid Treatment
Women are very unfortunately used to confronting stigma, discrimination and prejudice when they walk anywhere, sometimes including into a treatment program to interface with a provider.
Imagine facing the challenges of opioid addiction while also navigating the complex world of reproductive and sexual health. In this episode of 'Addiction Medicine: Beyond the Abstract', Dr. Hendrée Jones, a professor at the University of North Carolina and Director of the UNC Horizons Program, sheds light on this very issue. Dr. Jones dives into her research on how women in opioid treatment programs can better access reproductive and sexual health services.
She shares eye-opening insights into the barriers these women face, including stigma and discrimination that often deter them from seeking necessary care. With a career dedicated to supporting women through addiction recovery, Dr. Jones offers practical strategies to overcome these obstacles. She emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding from healthcare providers, advocating for a safe and welcoming environment. Additionally, she discusses the value of providing written materials and low-cost contraceptive options to make healthcare more accessible.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of addiction treatment and women's health, offering valuable perspectives on creating empowering and respectful healthcare services.