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 A hybrid in-person and virtual event, the summit convened a diverse group of people with deep knowledge of the issues and dedication to finding solutions to discuss how stigma and health inequity increase barriers around substance use disorder (SUD). More importantly, presenters shared their knowledge, perspectives, and experience about how to overcome stigma and health inequities and more effectively address the SUD crisis in rural communities.

The aim of this resource page is to provide communities—including health and human services providers, individuals with substance use disorder, their families and friends, and local leaders—with convenient, evidence-based tools to use and share in addressing risks related to polysubstance use.

Transitions Clinic Network (TCN) programs address the high rates of overdose mortality among people recently released from incarceration and other health risks and challenges these individuals face. A primary care practice that implements a TCN program provides patients with care for chronic health conditions including substance use disorder upon release. It adds a community health worker with a history of incarceration who connects with patients before release, helps them navigate services in the community, and provides warm handoffs.

In rural communities where pharmacotherapy may not be available in primary care practices, telemedicine-based treatment with providers outside the immediate area can serve as a 2-3 year bridge, supporting patients in their recovery while allowing PCPs to become trained in pharmacotherapy and integrate care management into their practices. A bridge program also supports SUD treatment programs in maintaining access to treatment for new patients.

In this webinar, Gloria Baciewicz and Patrick Seche of Strong Recovery and UR Medicine Recovery Center of Excellence discuss targeted naloxone (often known by the brand-name Narcan) distribution. They describe how to establish a program, and suggest “touchless” approaches to delivery and remote training that are helping expand access to naloxone in rural areas.

Our first webinar, “Creating Solutions: Recovery in the Opioid Crisis,” focuses on evidence-based practices (EBPs) that can help communities combat substance use disorder, particularly synthetic opioid use.