This session provides a focused overview of harm reduction principles in addiction medicine, emphasizing practical strategies to improve safety, reduce substance-related harms, and strengthen patient engagement. Aligned with the ACAAM National Addiction Medicine Didactic Curriculum and ABPM content areas, the session explores evidence-based harm reduction approaches, emerging substance use risks, and the integration of harm reduction into clinical practice and community-based care.
What This Covers
• Core harm reduction principles, including patient-centered care and meeting people where they are
• The role of harm reduction in reducing morbidity, mortality, and barriers to care
• Practical interventions such as naloxone distribution, syringe service programs, overdose education, and drug checking
• Emerging risks, including fentanyl contamination, polysubstance exposure, and overdose prevention strategies
• Integration of harm reduction into clinical practice through safety planning and community partnerships
• Approaches to improving outcomes and supporting people who use substances across a range of care settings
How This Resource Is Used
This session is designed for on-demand learning, focused content review, and board preparation. It may be used to reinforce foundational addiction medicine concepts, supplement fellowship training, or support preparation for addiction medicine certification examinations. Learners can engage with specific topic areas independently or complete the full session as part of a structured study plan.