Presenter: Lori Ann Eldridge is an assistant professor at East Carolina University, North Carolina. She is a public health implementation scientist. Her research is designed to bridge the gap between research and practice by the translation of empirical evidence into evidence-based curriculums, interventions, and the establishment of policy change. She focuses on how the impact of laws, policies, regulations, access to services, and healthcare delivery are affected by social determinants of health. Her research has been influenced from 16 years of professional applied experience with individuals with comorbid diagnoses of mental health, physical and intellectual disabilities, and substance use disorders. 

About: There are millions of people across the globe living with intellectual disabilities. There is a substantive lack of evidence concerning how best to structure healthcare, systems of care, and treatment modalities specific to people with intellectual disabilities. As a result, people with intellectual disabilities face unique challenges in obtaining health-related services including substance use prevention, harm reduction, and treatment. During this training we will discuss how stigma affect the care provided. Additionally, we will identify ways that advocates, care providers, support staff, and case managers can develop pathways to care related to substance use for individuals with intellectual disabilities to address stigma. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Analyze and synthesize current literature concerning the intersection of substance use disorders and intellectual disabilities.
• Identify and articulate five distinct areas of stigma associated with intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.
• Identify current trends on access and barriers to substance use prevention, harm reduction, and treatment as it relates to individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Apply practical steps and best practices to improve access to substance use prevention, harm reduction, and treatment for people with intellectual disabilities.