Highmark Wholecare Highlights National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week®

Highmark Wholecare is committed to partnering with providers to improve the health and well-being of our members. National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week^® (NDAFW), which takes place March 17-23, 2025, provides a crucial opportunity to address substance use and substance use disorder. Let's review the key facts below:

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a Treatable Medical Condition: Effective treatments include medications, therapy, and support groups. Understanding this is crucial for compassionate and effective care.

Recovery is a Journey, Not a Destination: Recovery is a dynamic process. A recurrence of use is common - it's an opportunity for adjustment, not failure. Sustained support is key to long-term success.

Harm Reduction Saves Lives: Harm reduction strategies encompass a range of approaches designed to minimize the negative consequences associated with substance use. These include syringe service programs (SSPs), naloxone distribution, medications, supervised consumption sites, and harm reduction therapy. These evidence-based approaches reduce the spread of infectious diseases, prevent overdose deaths, and improve public health outcomes.

Naloxone is a Lifesaver: Naloxone reverses opioid overdoses. Educating patients and families on recognizing symptoms and administering naloxone is crucial. To learn how to obtain naloxone in Pennsylvania, click here.

Recovery Paths Vary and Support for All is Crucial: Recovery is a personal journey. Emphasizing individual choice and the importance of collaborating with patients to find the best path toward sustained wellness and recovery empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their care.

Early Intervention Improves Substance Use Outcomes: This NDAFW, consider using the Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) approach to identify and address risky substance use. For helpful information on SBIRT billing, please refer to our SBIRT for Substance Use Disorders Guide.

Highmark Wholecare is committed to partnering with providers to offer comprehensive and compassionate care. For more information and resources, visit our Addiction Resource Center.