Canadian Psychological Association Annual Convention presentation

Dr. Hartery was awarded a Research and Professional Development grant to present a workshop at the Canadian Psychological Association on people who use substances and primary care.

People who use substances often lack access to primary care, and may opt out of discussing substance use with their doctor (Hartney et al, 2003). We developed best practices for primary care from data gathered from patients who use(d) substances. Three days of workshops bringing together patients employed as peer research associates, physicians, and health system partners were used to develop three key resources: a one-page best practice guidelines document; a checklist for self-assessment by primary care practices; and a website. Guidelines were externally evaluated by McGill University and are being disseminated to primary care physicians and health system partners.