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Whole-Person Health and Quality Improvement

CE Credit Available

PWF2 - Development and Integration of Peer Recovery Support Specialists and the Importance of Community Engagement - Advocating Locally

Wednesday, February 11, 2026
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM ET
Location: Chesapeake J-L (Ballroom Level)
Knowledge Level: Basic
Prerequisite: N/A
CPE: 0
CME: 1
CEU: 1
ACHE: 1
Session Description: Learn how a large rural community health center in eastern Oklahoma worked with patients, local law enforcement, court system and providers to develop local peer recovery support specialists from their patient population. The health center team members successfully advocated with local law enforcement and the judicial system to provide an alternative for those facing the impacts of substance abuse. See how through local these efforts a local law enforcement officer became engaged and eventually volunteered on the health center board of directors. Team members provide understanding, motivation, and systematic support for patients in need and guide wrap around services to create the environment necessary for full recovery.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how a rural health center developed peer recovery support specialists from their patient population.
  • Understand how the local law enforcement and judicial system supported services.
  • Observe how peer specialists engage with new patients for whole-person care.