Strengthening Prevention Pathways for Substance Use

Addressing Medical Partiality: Strengthening Prevention Pathways for Substance Use

Substance use does not exist in isolation; it is influenced by a range of interrelated community, environmental, and health challenges contributing to risk and vulnerability. These interconnected factors, known as co-occurring health and social challenges, increase both the likelihood of substance use and the complexity of prevention efforts. Emergency departments often become the first point of contact for individuals experiencing these challenges. However, provider perceptions and attitudes can unintentionally limit access to care and undermine prevention and early intervention efforts.

This webinar is designed to equip prevention professionals with an understanding of how these interconnected health factors shape community risk, how provider assumptions can create obstacles or challenges to prevention and treatment, and how prevention efforts can be strengthened through collaborative, systems-level approaches. Participants will leave with strategies to integrate proactive, prevention-first responses into healthcare and community settings, ensuring early identification and support for those at elevated risk.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Explain how multiple, interrelated community and health factors increase the risk of substance use and complicate prevention efforts.
• Describe the critical role of emergency departments as key settings for early identification and intervention and the impact of provider perceptions on care delivery.
• Identify how provider attitudes and unintentional views can affect prevention pathways and access to supportive services.
• Demonstrate strategies that promote prevention-focused, person-centered approaches in healthcare and community environments, using collaborative models that support early intervention and long-term well-being.

Learn more and register

For trainings that indicate Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available, contact the organizer and/or the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation to verify that the credits will count toward the continuing education requirements of your licensure or certification.