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Description
As the overdose epidemic evolves into its fourth wave, driven by the combined use of opioids and stimulants and accompanied by rising HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) infections, rural communities face the steepest challenges and the fewest resources. This session will provide clinicians with a practical roadmap for integrating MOUD, contingency management, and HIV/HCV prevention and treatment into routine care. Informed by a peer-reviewed study of Colorado's rural MOUD expansion, the presentation will highlight real-world implementation strategies that help rural practices launch and sustain comprehensive, patient-centered services.
Objectives
- Describe how the overdose crisis has evolved into a "fourth wave," driven by the combined use of opioids and stimulants, and how this has contributed to rising rates of HIV and HCV in rural communities.
- Use medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) effectively in rural practice and recognize common barriers that prevent patients from accessing treatment.
- Explain why contingency management is the most effective treatment for stimulant use disorder and identify the key elements needed to implement it successfully.
- Incorporate HIV and HCV screening, prevention, and treatment into substance use care using approaches that work in rural settings.
- Apply practical implementation strategies that help rural clinics adopt, sustain, and expand integrated care for substance use disorders, HIV, and HCV.
Speaker
Aime Techau, PhD, MSN, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, NE-BC, CPHQ
Clinical Director and Senior Instructor
University of Colorado College of Nursing