EMS at the Frontlines: Strategies to Confront the Opioid Epidemic

FREE for MAA Members | September 18 | 1:00 PM CT 

The opioid crisis continues to challenge communities across Minnesota, and EMS providers remain on the frontlines of response. This session will explore how ambulance services can make small or large changes to transform their role in addressing opioid use disorder - in particular, by leveraging a new statewide resource hub of called MN Bridge. Topics will include reducing stigma in patient encounters, shifting agency culture, and updating protocols to better support recovery. Practical strategies will be shared, including the use of naloxone, medications to treat withdrawal, and approaches that connect patients to long-term resources. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how EMS can lead change.

Speakers:

Dr. Tim Kummer, MD - Hennepin Healthcare/Hennepin EMS

Dr. Holly Drone, PharmD, BCEMP - Hennepin Healthcare/Hennepin EMS