A wave of opioid addiction is affecting communities both in Hawai'i and on the US continent. Use of opioids such as heroin, morphine, and prescription pain relievers has swelled to levels of dependency in many individuals, and being cut off by well-meaning providers causes many to seek elsewhere.  Several factors contribute to the breadth and complexity of this urgent problem: severe chronic pain, greater use of prescriptions, aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies, among others.  Services, solutions, and care management exist here in Hawai'i to reduce harm and improve quality of life for all.

Learning Outcomes:

• Discuss current trends in opioid use, dependence, and abuse.
• Review the psychosocial and pharmacologic treatment options for clients with substance abuse/ dependence.
• Summarize what services are available for opioid dependent clients in Hawai'i and how to assist in the coordination of care.

Target Audience:  Healthcare Professionals, Public Health, Substance Abuse Professionals

Duration: ~ 1.5 hours

Continuing Education Information: 1.5 CHES

Format: Web-based, Self Study

Original Webinar Recorded: September 21, 2018

Author(s) and Presenter(s): Heather Lusk, MSW