Community Partnerships for Implementing SUD Programs
Gaining support from key partners is crucial for implementing rural substance use disorder (SUD) programs. Important program partners may include:
- Law enforcement
- Emergency medical services (EMS)
- Fire departments
- Court systems
- Hospitals and clinics
- Pharmacies
- Public health agencies
- Recovery groups
- Local schools, colleges, and universities
- Housing agencies and services
- Transportation agencies and services
- Social service organizations
- Job training programs
- Churches and faith-based organizations
- SUD-focused organizations or services
Securing buy-in from local law enforcement, fire departments, and EMS leadership is important for programs focused on opioid use disorder and overdose response. In rural communities, EMS personnel are often the first to respond to a suspected overdose or other substance-related medical emergency. If a patient is experiencing an overdose, first responders can administer naloxone in an attempt to save the patient's life. Rural SUD programs can enhance response efforts by offering training and supplies to law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel for rapid treatment and naloxone administration.
Rural programs often work closely with hospitals and clinics in their community. It may be helpful to formalize these partnerships by establishing signed Memoranda of Agreement. Establishing formal partnerships can help institutionalize naloxone administration protocols, data collection efforts, and other program elements into each organization's infrastructure.
Some rural SUD prevention and treatment programs may increase access to care by implementing a service integration model to link patients with resources or existing programs. For example, programs serving child welfare-involved parents with SUD in rural communities often integrate SUD treatment and child welfare supports into a coordinated package of wraparound services tailored to address the needs of each family.