In this episode of Hot Topics in Mental Health, we spotlight Christopher F. Freer, DO, FACEP, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer, Acute Care Providers, RWJBarnabas Health, and a leader in advancing innovative, evidence-based treatment for substance use disorder. Dr. Freer discusses how emergency departments can play a pivotal role in helping people begin recovery from substance abuse conditions by connecting patients to lifesaving medications and other key supports.

He shares how initiatives are changing outcomes for patients across New Jersey. For example, patients who receive buprenorphine following a nonfatal opioid overdose have a 62% lower risk of dying from an opioid overdose. He also discusses how collaboration across an entire healthcare system can create more opportunities for recovery. 

Dr. Freer has been selected to be an honoree at the Mental Health Association in New Jersey's 26th Annual Evening of Excellence this November, recognized for his leadership in advancing compassionate, lifesaving approaches to substance use disorder treatment.

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey is a statewide non-profit organization that strives for people to achieve victory over mental illness and substance use disorders through advocacy, education, training and services. For more information visit our website, https://www.mhanj.org/ or email our host,  Merrill Altberg, MSA, Director of Communications, at [email protected].