Addiction Prevention Coalition
Addiction Prevention Coalition
From Stigma to Support: A Conversation with Dr. Emma Kay
From Stigma to Support: A Conversation with Dr. Emma Kay
From Stigma to Support: A Conversation with Dr. Emma Kay
Thursday 5th June 2025
Join Dr. Emma Kay as she discusses breaking stigma in healthcare, focusing on HIV and substance use with innovative solutions and support.
36 minutes
Informative
Inspiring
Compassionate
Hopeful
Supportive
About this podcast
Author:
Addiction Prevention Coalition
Overview:
Categories:
Family Recovery from Addiction
Recovery Reimagined
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
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Get the buttons here!Breaking Barriers: Dr. Emma Kay on Stigma and Support
Episode Overview
- Stigma remains a significant barrier in treating substance use and HIV.
- Training for healthcare providers on harm reduction is lacking.
- Patient advocacy is crucial for effective healthcare.
- Relational harm reduction can improve patient-provider interactions.
- Advancements in HIV treatment offer more patient options.
"There's more substance use stigma that remains in medical settings than HIV stigma."
Dr. Emma Kay brings her unique perspective to the table in this episode of APC Recovery Cafe. As an Associate Professor at UAB’s School of Nursing, Dr. Kay is deeply involved in the intersection of HIV care, substance use, and harm reduction. She highlights the challenges faced by individuals battling both HIV and substance use disorders, noting the persistent stigma that often prevents effective care. With her background in social work and her extensive research, Dr.
Kay sheds light on the gaps in training among healthcare providers regarding harm reduction. Her passion for bridging these gaps is evident as she discusses her efforts to create meaningful connections between healthcare providers and patients. Dr. Kay shares her journey from a social work student placed unexpectedly in an HIV clinic to becoming a leading advocate for harm reduction and patient-centred care.
She discusses the advancements in HIV treatment, such as injectable antiretroviral therapy, which offers more options for patients. Yet, she notes the lack of similar resources for substance use prevention, particularly in areas like Alabama. The conversation also touches on the importance of patient advocacy and the power dynamics in medical settings that can hinder open discussions about substance use. Dr.
Kay emphasises the need for relational harm reduction strategies that empower both patients and providers to address substance use openly and without judgement. If you're curious about how healthcare can evolve to better serve those with complex health challenges, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of current issues and innovative solutions. Dr. Kay's insights provide hope for a more inclusive and understanding healthcare system.