Taking Healthcare by Storm Highlights West Virginia’s Innovative Approach to Combating the Opioid Crisis
October 2, 2024
Randy Polito, a Customer Success Consultant with CHESS Health, recently participated in an episode of Taking Healthcare by Storm, with Dr. Jean Storm, Medical Director at Quality Insights. During this episode, they focused on the ongoing challenges and innovative solutions in addressing opioid use disorder, particularly in West Virginia.
Randy emphasized CHESS Health’s commitment to evidence-based digital solutions for recovery, stating, “Everything that we do is evidence-based. We work hard to connect people to care so they can lead happier, more meaningful lives.” CHESS Health offers a variety of tools, including the Connections app, to keep individuals connected and supported throughout their recovery journey.
Podcast Highlights
Opioid Use Disorder in West Virginia
The discussion highlighted the severe impact of opioid use disorder in West Virginia, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted support systems and increased isolation—a significant relapse risk factor. Polito noted, “When your connection is interrupted, and you’re there alone, you don’t have the support group, you don’t have the reassurance of your tribe… maybe turning back toward substances is what you feel is the only way to cope.”
Listen to the Podcast.
Role of Digital Tools
Thanks to a partnership with West Virginia University Health Affairs, the Connections app is available at no cost to West Virginians, highlighting the growing need for digital solutions in healthcare. The pandemic accelerated this shift, revealing the critical importance of remote access to support. This app is a pivotal resource for individuals in recovery, providing round-the-clock access to a supportive community of peers and licensed specialists. With live recovery meetings and a wealth of resources at users’ fingertips, Connections empowers individuals to build and sustain foundational coping and recovery skills.
Polito highlighted the transformative nature of such accessibility, noting, “All you have to do is reach into your back pocket, pull out your phone, and the Connections app will connect you to a community of individuals in recovery.”
In a state profoundly impacted by the opioid crisis, the availability of the app at no cost significantly enhances its value, ensuring that vital support is within reach for everyone who needs it. This model reflects a broader trend where digital tools are integral to delivering comprehensive, accessible care in an increasingly consumer-focused healthcare environment.
State Opioid Response (SOR) Grant
Originally launched with SOR grant funding, the partnership between the state of West Virginia and CHESS Health aimed to address urgent needs during the pandemic by developing and making the Connections app widely available. Recognizing the evolving needs of the state’s population, this initiative has since expanded to include the newly launched Companion app. Designed specifically to support the families and loved ones of individuals struggling with substance use disorder, this innovative tool empowers caregivers with essential education and resources, reflecting a commitment to holistic support.
Polito noted, “The state of West Virginia achieved significant progress this year by participating in the development of our Companion app, which serves friends, family, loved ones, and caregivers of those affected by substance use or mental health challenges.” This expansion demonstrates West Virginia’s proactive approach to leveraging digital solutions to enhance support networks and improve overall care. The Companion app builds on the success of the Connections app, showcasing a forward-thinking initiative aimed at addressing the broader spectrum of needs within the community.
Accessibility and Impact
The free availability of CHESS Health’s Connections app marks a significant advancement toward equitable access to recovery resources. The new Companion app extends this support, aiding families in managing substance use disorders. Polito emphasized, “Everyone has open access to this app for peer support and crisis care, completely free.”
CHESS Health is proud to be at the forefront of digital health innovation, offering solutions that not only aid in recovery but also help prevent opioid use disorder from taking root. The Connections and Companion apps are vital tools in West Virginia’s fight against the opioid epidemic, ensuring that those in need are never truly alone in their journey toward recovery.
For more information about West Virginia’s recovery support resources powered by CHESS Health, including eligibility to participate in this program and receive access to these solutions at no cost, fill out the form. CHESS Health is a business-to-business organization, working with providers, health plans, and public sector organizations.
