About: This 90 minute presentation will touch on substance use disorder, the neuropathology of SUD, resources to improve access to care in Eastern Washington, and patient cases to apply skills learned. 

Learning objectives:

• Describe the pathology of substance use disorder 
• Explain the role neurotransmitters have in developing physical and psychological dependence on a substance
• Utilize strategies to address patient concerns related to substance use disorders

Presenter: Nicole Rodin is an assistant professor at the Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and is a multifaceted leader in academia, clinical practice, and research. She received her Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of New Mexico and an MBA from Washington State University. As a clinical lead at the WSU Research Clinic, she spearheads innovative clinical trials to treat substance use disorders. Through her expertise and dedication, Nicole has earned a number of awards, including the Chancellor’s Excellence Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at WSU, the University of Washington’s Golden Apple Speaker Award, the Spokane Pharmacy Association’s Pharmacist of the Year Award, and the Director of the FBI’s Community Leadership Award. Beyond her professional achievements, Nicole is deeply committed to community outreach, delivering naloxone trainings, and advocating for evidence-based medicine.