Lessons from the Frontline: Personal Stories of Recovery Sparked in the ED

The ED as a Turning Point Working in a rural emergency department, I’ve seen moments of crisis that stay with you long after the patient leaves. For many individuals struggling with opioid use disorder, the ED is more than just a place to treat a medical emergency—it is a crossroads. Some arrive after an overdose, […]

Beyond the ED: Community-Based Strategies to Support Patients After MAT Initiation

The Emergency Department as a Starting Point The emergency department is often the first—and sometimes only—point of contact for patients struggling with opioid use disorder, particularly in rural communities. When a patient arrives in crisis, experiencing withdrawal, or recovering from an overdose, initiating Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) can stabilize their condition and provide a bridge to […]