Innovative Solutions for Opioid Use Disorder in Arizona
Millions of Americans suffer from Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), and opioid overdose has been designated a public health emergency since 2017. The opioid crisis calls for innovative solutions that connect individuals and families with effective, local treatment options tailored to their unique needs. The state of Arizona and AHCCCS are leading the way in leveraging AI technology to combat the opioid epidemic, connecting tens of thousands of people to support across 120 cities in the state.
Traditionally, Arizonans seeking treatment for OUD encountered a complex and often overwhelming system—relying on word-of-mouth referrals, outdated community resource guides, or the challenging task of navigating complex health plan websites. Within the healthcare system, providers often struggled to present patients with appropriate resources, lacking a single-source guide to available options.
To address these challenges, AHCCCS partnered with Google Cloud and Syntasa to create the Gen AI-powered Opioid Use Disorder Service Provider Locator. This smartphone/SMS-optimized platform connects urban and rural users alike with information about local care providers and other treatment options in real time, 24/7—wherever they are and whenever they choose to seek care.
Please watch Kate Dobler, State Opioid Treatment Authority (SOTA) at AHCCCS, discuss how Arizona is expanding access to local opioid treatment using Google AI to help residents find OUD treatment information tailored to their needs.
Opioid Use Disorder and Treatment
Opioid use disorder is preventable and treatable
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a problematic pattern of opioid use that leads to continued uncontrollable use of opioids,despite adverse consequences, interfering with life obligations and social functioning.
Findings associated with brain physiology and its relation to dependency has established the foundation for understanding addiction as a treatable disease and has influenced more precise and effective treatment interventions.
Medication can assist in preventing relapse while the brain is healing and regular emotional and decision-making capacities are being restored. Utilizing medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), can be essential in helping to control symptoms of withdrawal and cravings.
Treatment for OUD consists of multiple service components that may be utilized based on individual needs. Various OUD treatment options are available and may include:
- Individual and group counseling
- Medication Assisted Treatment Programs (MAT)
- Inpatient and Residential Treatment
- Pregnant and Postpartum supports
- Intensive Outpatient Treatment
- Partial Hospital Programs
- Case or Care Management
- Recovery Support Services
- 12-Step Fellowship
- Peer support Services
- Detoxification Services
- Newborn Detox Programs
- Induction Services
- Overdose Prevention Planning
- Family Support and Education
Resources
Arizona Opioid Assistance and Referral (OAR) Line
1-888-688-4222
The OAR Line provides the following services to all patients, caregivers and family members:
- Emergent and non-urgent information about opioid medications and effects
- Assistance with opioid use, chronic pain and opioid withdrawal
- Referrals for patient support and outpatient opioid and treatment services
- Referrals for patients seeking behavioral health treatment services
- Routine follow-up calls for ongoing assistance and support
