PORTLAND — MaineHealth plans to bring together medical providers (hospitalists, ambulatory providers, nurses, behavioral health clinicians, etc.), community and public health partners, patients, and families to learn more about the best practice care for people with substance use disorder (SUD) at an annual conference.
The event will be held Thursday, Sept. 28 at 110 Free St.
The conference, “Better Together: Treating SUD in Diverse Populations,” will address the unique needs of those in diverse and vulnerable populations so as to foster hope, healing and resilience for all people struggling with substance use disorders, according to a news release from Valerie Compagna with MaineHealth.
Christopher Poulos, executive director of the Center for Justice and Human Dignity in Arizona, will deliver a keynote address. As an advocate, lawyer and person in long-term recovery, he will set an ideal tone for the day of learning.
An expert slate of presenters will delve into substance use for a variety of diverse populations, with topics to include:
• Diversion and Recovery for Individuals with Justice Involvement
• Understanding and differentiating Cultural Humility and Cultural Competency with Maine’s Immigrant and Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Communities
• Treating ADHD in Patients with SUD
• Addressing SUD among People Experiencing Homelessness
• Addiction, Recovery, and Parenting: Considering Child Safety & Nurturing Healthy Families
• Adolescents with SUD
• Veterans with SUD
• Understanding and Utilizing Harm Reduction Principles to Better Care for LGBTQ+ Individuals
MaineHealth Chief Health Improvement Officer Dora Anne Mills will provide opening remarks.
“Over the last 10 years, the rate of overdose deaths in our communities has risen at an alarming rate,” said Mills. “At MaineHealth, we see substance use disorder as a chronic disease that can be treated holistically, involving counseling, medication, primary care and peer support. Delivering treatment can be particularly challenging for those in diverse populations, making the education offered through this conference so critical.”
The cost to attend is $75, including breakfast and lunch. A virtual option is available at $50.
Free parking is available at the Spring Street parking garage, which is adjacent to the MaineHealth building at 110 Free St.
Learn more and register at mhesevents.org/bettertogether.
Check out other upcoming area events!
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