Physician Associates frequently encounter patients affected by substance use across outpatient and acute care settings. This session provides an overview of common substances of use, current trends, and their clinical presentations and health impacts, with emphasis on practical recognition and assessment. Participants will review evidence-based screening tools and core characteristics of addictive substances to support early identification and intervention. Objectives: 1. Describe common substances of use and associated trends, with emphasis on alcohol use and alcohol-related harms. 2. Explore the common characteristics of addictive substances and factors associated with the development of substance use disorders. 3. Describe the clinical presentation and health impacts of alcohol in outpatient and acute care settings. 4. Identify some of the most common evidence-based screening tools used to support early identification and intervention for substance use disorders, including alcohol use disorder. 5. Explore how stigma, trauma exposure, barriers to healthcare access, and socioeconomic stressors contribute to substance use patterns and engagement in care.

An overview on the recently passed legislation and regulation that affects PA practice. A comprehensive review of statues and rules thePAs and NPs practice under. Objectives: 1. Define North Carolina OTP legislation and Rules set by the North Carolina Medical Board 2. Demonstrate how these new laws will affect certain populations across North Carolina 3. Discuss PA and NP utilization across North Carolina 4. Learn new laws and regulations that effect PA and NP practice