Bridging the Gap: How West Coast Teams Boost Addiction Care Knowledge

The Problem

• 25 years ago, a significant issue was identified:
• Scientists were making groundbreaking discoveries in addiction treatment.
• However, these findings weren't reaching the frontline healthcare workers who needed them most.

The Solution

• Two crucial groups were established to address this issue:
• Clinical Trials Network (CTN)
• Addiction Technology Transfer Centers (ATTCs)
• Goal: To translate research into practical tools for doctors, nurses, and counselors.

Present Day Efforts

• A dedicated team on the West Coast is keeping the mission alive.
• Group: Western States CTN Node Training and Dissemination Workgroup
• Members:
• Western States CTN Node
• Northwest ATTC
• Pacific Southwest ATTC
• CTN Dissemination Library
• Focus: Keeping addiction treatment professionals informed about the latest scientific advancements.

Methods of Dissemination

1. Webinars:
   • Hosted twice a year.
   • Experts share new research and best practices with hundreds of professionals.
2. Monthly Column:
   • Published in the ATTC Messenger newsletter.
   • Keeps the conversation ongoing and reaches a wider audience.

Measuring Impact

• Over the past five years, the team has tracked their progress:
• Thousands of attendees at their webinars.
• Steady readership of their newsletter column.
• Conclusion: There is a clear demand for this type of information.

Future Vision

• The team sees even more opportunities ahead.
• Goal: Ensure that every addiction treatment professional has access to the latest research and tools.
• Belief: Knowledge is not just power—it's a lifeline in the fight against addiction.