Hope In The Valley Series - Episode 2 with Ricky N. Bluthenthal, Ph.D (Ep.59)

About this episode

The episode discusses challenges in substance use treatment and prevention, focusing on marginalized communities and the impact of systemic issues.

Ramon Sanchez, LCSW with cohost Dr. Ashleigh Herrera dive into the conversation with Ricky N. Bluthenthal, Ph.D and discuss the challenges and disparities in substance use treatment and prevention, particularly focusing on the impact of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) on marginalized communities. It explores the disproportionate impact of substance use on communities of color, the barriers to accessing medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and the gaps in substance use prevention and research for marginalized communities. Additionally, it discusses the influence of psychosocial stressors on substance use and mental health. The conversation delves into the impact of stigma and systemic racism on overdose prevention measures, the need for nuanced and culturally sensitive approaches to substance use disorder, policy changes and systemic impact, and hope for health equity and prevention. The discussion highlights the challenges in promoting awareness, addressing stigma and systemic racism, and the need for linguistically accessible services and culturally specific messaging. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals with resources for…

People in this episode

Hosts: Ramon Sanchez, Dr. Ashleigh Herrera

Guest: Ricky N. Bluthenthal, Ph.D

Topics covered

• substance use treatment
• Medication Assisted Treatment
• marginalized communities
• health equity
• systemic racism
• overdose prevention

Keywords

• substance use
• Medication Assisted Treatment
• opioid use disorder
• health equity
• systemic racism
• stigma
• culturally sensitive approaches

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Department of Health Care Services

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