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Impact of Social Distancing on Individuals Who Use Drugs: Considerations for Emergency Department Providers

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: The isolation that comes from social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic can be particularly detrimental to the United States' population of people who use drugs. People with substance use disorders may be at risk for return to use, exacerbation of existing mental health disorders, and risky drug practices. In this commentary, we review the risk to people who use drugs and how emergency department providers can best support these individuals during the unprecedented time of social distancing.

Source: Western Journal of Emergency Medicine

DOI: 10.5811/westjem.2020.7.47896

Authors: Kathy LeSaint, Hannah Snyder

Institution: University of California, San Francisco

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $500