Indiana Department of Correction to Provide Naloxone to Offenders Upon Release

The Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) announced on November 10^th that they will be making naloxone, the opioid reversal agent, available to those recently released from an IDOC facility. Dr. Kristen Dauss, IDOC Chief Medical Officer explains that providing naloxone upon release can help ensure they have an easier transition into the community. During a pre-release screening, the incarcerated person is asked whether they would like to receive a free naloxone kit, which contains one dose of naloxone, instructions for use, and a referral card for treatment. The goal of this effort is to replicate the naloxone program that currently exists in Indiana’s 10 parole districts. These efforts are in alignment with the state of Overdose Lifeline’s goal of reducing the stigma around substance use disorder.

Indiana Initiatives: Actions and Progress Report

Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and his Next Level Recovery initiative recently released a report, updating the public on the progress made in Indiana this year to combat the drug crisis. This report sought to identify outcome and impact indicators pertaining to opioid use, improved access to treatment, resources for those wanting treatment, as well as evidence-based treatment programs in jails. Another key aspect of this progress report was to address the prevention efforts, such as prescriber report cards and syringe service programs. Enforcement is another component of the initiative, which includes drug take backs, penalties for those who commit pharmacy, and increased penalties for those who manufacture or distribute opioids that result in an overdose death.

Treatment of Stimulant Use Disorders

This guide, created by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) describes research and findings of stimulant use disorders, examines best practices, and identifies gaps in knowledge and implementation. It also provides resources available to health care providers and communities to treat stimulant use disorders. The overarching goal of this guide is to disseminate information on current evidence-based practices to help prevent substance misuse and help people who are either at risk for substance misuse or recovering from mental or substance use disorders find the necessary treatment and support they need.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Overview of Harm Reduction

Noon – 2 p.m. ET, Nov. 24

This free course has been created by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports to introduce participants to the harm reduction philosophy. Specific risk reduction strategies revolving around drugs, sex, and health relation behaviors are discussed to help providers enact a harm reduction approach.

Click here to register.

West Coast Symposium on Addictive Disorders

Thursday and Friday, Dec. 3-4 

C4 Recovery Foundation’s 11th annual WCSAD will explore the diverse issues that are currently impacting the core goal of behavioral healthcare. This free conference will provide healthcare professionals with the most current insights and actionable ideas from industry leaders to help them achieve that goal.

Click here to register.

At the payment page, enter "FOR" in the code box to gain access to this free webinar. 

Opioid Tapering Webinar

11 - 12:15 p.m., Dec. 9

The Center for Innovation in Academic Detailing on Opioids (CIAO) is kicking off its quarterly webinar series. The topic of the first webinar will be opioid tapering, including if and when to taper, how to create a "patient-centered" plan, and mechanics of a taper. This information will be presented using CIAO’s Opioids and Chronic Pain: A Guide for Primary Care Providers guidebook.

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Labor of Love Mortality Summit

Thursday, Dec. 10

The focus of the eighth annual Labor of Love Infant Mortality Summit is Delivering Health for Life, reflecting the importance of good health at any age and the impact healthy choices have on protecting our state’s most vulnerable population. This year’s summit focuses on adolescent health, postpartum/inter-conception care, adverse childhood experiences, reducing inequities in care and outcomes, role of fathers, substance use disorder and sharing innovative and emerging strategies.

Click here to register.