Resources and Tools

Data partnerships help coordinate HIV and opioid use disorder (OUD) services across state programs. These relationships can help state agencies identify service overlap and gaps, identify common goals, and initiate collaboration.

State health departments must dedicate staff and time to ensure a consistent approach to HIV and opioid use disorder (OUD) service delivery. For some states, this means creating new staff roles.

Having access to secure and safe housing can have substantially positive effects on the health and wellbeing of people with HIV and people who use drugs. Harm reduction housing programs have seen success when they prioritize the dignity, respect, and unique needs of each person seeking services.

Nearly two years and 19 episodes later, we’re wrapping up the Connecting Care podcast.

Access to safe and reliable housing has an enormous influence on a person’s health outcomes and ability to meet their needs.

A collision of drug criminalization, inadequate and discriminatory housing policies, and insufficient mental health and substance use care services has fostered open drug scene encampments in communities around the world.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Throughout our Connecting Care podcast series, we’ve focused on different communities of adults with HIV and/or substance use disorders (SUDs). One population we haven’t yet covered is the adolescent and young adult population.

Methadone can be a life-changing treatment option for people with opioid use disorder. However, a number of federal and state regulations and logistical requirements can inhibit a person’s ability to start and/or maintain methadone treatment.

Language is foundational to how we understand and interact with ourselves and others. Unclear language can lead to confusion and inefficiencies, while stigmatizing and prejudicial language leads to harmful practices and dehumanizes people.