The annual statewide Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Integrated Care Conference was held at the Hyatt Regency in Long Beach, California from August 15-17 and was hosted by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS).
The event brought together professionals, experts, and stakeholders from across the state to discuss and explore innovative approaches to integrated care for substance use disorders. Attended by our dedicated staff, the conference showcased a diverse range of insights, discussions, and strategies aimed at transforming the landscape of substance use disorder treatment.
The conference was a melting pot of diverse perspectives, featuring presentations from renowned healthcare leaders, researchers, and practitioners. Each session was meticulously curated to delve into critical topics that encompassed both the medical and psychological aspects of substance use disorders. Attendees were treated to a series of thought-provoking discussions that tackled the challenges of providing comprehensive care and support to individuals struggling with substance use issues.
Here are some of the topics that were discussed at the conference:
Complete Care Approach: The conference stressed the importance of a full-spectrum approach to treating substance use disorders. This means combining mental health services, medical treatments, and social support to address the root causes of substance use.
Teamwork Matters: Collaboration among different healthcare experts is crucial. The conference highlighted the value of teams with specialists comprised of doctors, psychologists, social workers, and more. Their combined insights create better treatment plans.
Understanding Diversity: Addressing the differences between patients is important. The conference emphasized understanding cultural, social, and economic factors that affect substance use. This helps make treatments more effective and more equitable.
Comprehensive Youth-Centric Care: The conference emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach tailored to youth. Integrating mental health, medical services, and family support can effectively address substance use issues at an early stage.
Early Intervention and Prevention: Presenters underscored the importance of early intervention and prevention in the context of SUD. Detecting risk factors and signs of substance use at an early stage can significantly improve outcomes. Integrating prevention efforts into primary care settings and educational institutions emerged as a promising strategy to identify at-risk individuals and provide timely support.
Workforce Development: The conference also shared information on best practices for recruitment, retention, and training the behavioral health workforce.
Transforming SUD Treatment in California’s Prisons: The program provides effective treatment and transition to the community for incarcerated individuals with SUDs to save lives, reduce avoidable health complications and costs, improve public safety, and promote healthier communities.
Tech and Telehealth: Technology plays a big role. Apps, virtual health services, and devices can help monitor progress, offer education, and give ongoing assistance. This is especially helpful for people who can’t easily access in-person care.
IMS Services in Residential SUD Settings: The conference discussed the expansion of IMS in residential SUD settings, and tips on how to implement the model of open access, or “SUD urgent care”.
The 2023 California DHCS Substance Use Disorder Integrated Care Conference stood as a testament to the state’s commitment to tackling the complex challenges posed by substance use disorders. By emphasizing integrated care, embracing innovation, and fostering collaboration, the conference demonstrated a collective dedication to improving the lives of individuals affected by substance use issues.
As our staff members reflect on the wealth of knowledge gained from this event, they are better equipped to contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance substance use disorder treatment and ultimately create a healthier, more compassionate society.
Photos taken by Brandon James
