Rural Health Conference focuses on substance abuse

TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Substance abuse is the focus of the 19th Annual Rural Health Conference organized by the University of Alabama College of Community Health Science.

More than 200 people have gathered for the two-day conference to find solutions for people getting treatment for substance abuse problems in rural communities like West Alabama. Transportation to treatment facilities is one of the biggest issues facing people trying to get help.

Holly Hagan, a guest speaker from New York University, told listeners says it's especially tough for people going through opioid addiction.

"We've just seen the spread of very high opioid deaths in this country. This is really devastating communities, impacting families," Hagan added.

Organizers say they also have to find ways to better implement services that work now. Some of them could include syringe exchange programs and distributing drugs that can prevent overdoses.

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