UT Health San Antonio announces the Be Well Institute on Substance Use and Related Diseases, bringing new advances in research and evidence-based treatment.
The Be Well Texas Initiative is part of a new comprehensive center that uses clinical and public health programs, education, and community engagement to address addiction and related concerns.
“This institute will lead the transformation in addressing substance use and substance use disorders in Texas and across the nation,” said Robert A. Fromas, acting chancellor of UT Health San Antonio. “We support the discovery, development and introduction of new treatments or the more effective use of current treatments.”
Bexar County is in the top three counties for drug addiction-related deaths in 2022, according to Texas Health Data from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
This initiative aims to create a compassionate and innovative environment for the care of people with substance abuse disorders. They want to eliminate stigma and help patients recover through innovative research and local engagement.
Be Well is supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse Clinical Trials Network and receives federal funding.
Treatment options include psychotherapy, social and peer support, lifestyle counseling, community outreach, and educational initiatives.
Founding director Jennifer Potter said the establishment of the institute ushered in a new era of collaboration in this field of research.
“Academic, medical, and public sector stakeholders are encouraged to join this important effort to improve the lives of individuals and communities affected by substance use disorders,” she added.
Gabriela Alcorta Solorio is a health reporting intern at Texas Public Radio. Texas Regional Health News through Texas State University Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication and the university Translational Health Research Center.
