SUD 101 Course 1: Overview of Substance Use Disorders-Course Overview

Course Overview

Pdf Summary

The course "Patient-Centered Care: Stigma and Advocacy" focuses on improving treatment for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) through a patient-centered approach. Presented by Dr. Anna Maria South, the program emphasizes the need to address and reduce stigma and discrimination that often interrupt the care continuum for patients with SUD, particularly opioid use disorder (OUD). Language plays a crucial role in either perpetuating or mitigating stigma, so the course highlights the importance of using respectful, non-stigmatizing terminology when discussing substance use.<br /><br />Funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and delivered through the Providers Clinical Support System – Medications for Opioid Use Disorders (PCSS-MOUD), this course offers free training and mentorship to healthcare and counseling professionals. The goal is to enhance knowledge and skills related to evidence-based treatment approaches, including the integration of medications for OUD into mainstream healthcare services.<br /><br />Key learning objectives include defining patient-centered care for SUD, describing the care continuum, explaining the impact of stigma and discrimination on care access, and outlining advocacy strategies clinicians can use to support patients with SUD. This educational activity adheres to rigorous standards of evidence-based medicine and avoids promotion of commercial interests.<br /><br />Overall, the course aims to empower clinicians to provide compassionate, stigma-free care and to advocate effectively for the rights and needs of people with SUD, ultimately improving treatment outcomes and access to care.

Keywords

patient-centered care

substance use disorder (SUD)

opioid use disorder (OUD)

stigma reduction

discrimination in healthcare

non-stigmatizing language

care continuum

clinical advocacy

medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)

PCSS-MOUD training