​​​​​​​​​​​​​

​Resources for ​Care Providers​

From law enforcement and EMT professionals to nurses, doctors, social workers, and everyone on the front lines working to prevent opioid deaths in Kane County, we want to support you with tools and resources to help. Working together, we can ensure equitable access to essential care without stigma.​​

Tips for Speaking with Patients

There are things professionals can do to better support the needs of their patients. Here are some tips for having real talks with patients.

  • Avoid using language​ that may cause people to react defensively.
  • Use clear explanations—avoid technical terms.
  • Ask open-ended questions.
  • Listen actively and express empathy.​

Expanding Access to Naloxone


 Dr. Steve Holtsford on Buprenorphine


First Responders

​Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services: Naloxone Information for First Responders​
EMS Bridge: Supports emergency providers with funding, tools, and training to help them better serve people who have been traditionally excluded from the healthcare system ​
SAMHSA: Guidance for Law Enforcement and First Responders Administering Naloxone
SAMHSA: Opioid Overdose Prevention Toolkit - Five Essential Steps for First Responders ​

Harm Reduction Professionals

CDC: Syringe Service Program Best Practices
National Harm Reduction Coalition: Guide to Developing and Managing Overdose Prevention and Take Home Naloxone Projects
​National Harm Reduction Technical Assistance Center​

​Nurses, Pharmacists, and Physicians

CDC Opioid Prescribing Resources​
National Association of School Nurses: Naloxone Education for School Nurses Toolkit
National Clinician Consultation Center: Expert clinical advice for healthcare providers on substance use evaluation and management​
SAMHSA: Emergency Department-Based Substance Use Response: A Toolkit for Developing, Planning, and Implementing a Peer Recovery Coach-Led Program​


​Social Workers and Teachers

Addiction Technology Transfer Center Network: Practical Strategies for Social Workers to Combat the Opioid Epidemic
Substance Use Prevention Resources for Schools and Students​
The Impact of Substance Use Disorders on Families and Children: From Theory to Practice​

More resources for Care Providers

CDC Naloxone Training with Patient Cases and CE Credits​

Illinois Xylazine Best Practices for Health Care Providers​

National Distribution of Certified Peer Support Specialists in the United States by State, District, and Territory​

​​SAMHSA: Evidence-Based Resources About Opioid Overdose​