Unhealthy substance use is common among pregnant and non-pregnant persons of reproductive age populations seeking healthcare in Nevada. Among this population, substance use can increase rates of unintended pregnancy, lead to substance exposed pregnancy, including neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS), and impact postnatal outcomes for the parent and infants. Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) is a public health strategy to identify and assist patients with unhealthy substance use. SBIRT can be effectively integrated into health settings to improve patient outcomes. SBIRT provides universal screening, prevention, and early intervention for those with risky substance use and referral to behavioral or medication assisted treatment for those who need more intensive services.

The SBIRT for Health Professionals ECHO will provide community health professionals with the training and support they need to manage substance use issues within  health settings specializing in treating pregnant and non-pregnant persons of reproductive age populations using an SBIRT model. This program will include an expert specialist team and interdisciplinary clinicians and other health professionals in local Nevada communities. The series will include six weekly tele-ECHO clinics that include a didactic presentation, combined with patient case presentations and mentoring.