ECHO – Opioids Prescribing in Dentistry, Lived Experiences of Patients with SUDs, and Using Peer Support in Patient Care

Course Synopsis: The goal of this ECHO program is to help build the capacity of dentists and their teams to identify and manage patients with oral pain or substance use disorders in the dental setting. Participants include community-based dentists, oral health professionals, OHSU School of Dentistry faculty, preceptors, residents, and other relevant healthcare professionals. This is the first session of an 8-session series. Educational Objectives for session 1: 1) To understand the role of dentistry and interprofessional team in combating opioid crisis; 2) Introduction to Peer Support; 3) Learn the Principles of Peer Support and How to Use them in Patient Care; 4) Learn How to Use Peer Directed Care. Future session topics include identifying patients with SUDs; pharmacological and non-pharmacological alternatives to opioids; pain management in patients using methamphetamine, cannabis, alcohol, benzodiazepines; managing dental care of vulnerable populations with SUDs; strategies for managing dental anxiety and unbiased prescribing; trauma-informed care for patients with SUDs.