This video is set in a hospital and shows an encounter between a Peer Specialist and a person who had a recent emergency department (ED) visit after an overdose. The patient is ambivalent about medications that target opioid use disorder (MOUD). The video demonstrates how Peers can use storytelling, advocacy, and compassion to engage a person with opioid use disorder who is considering MOUD. Importantly, the Peer stays within her scope of practice, showing humility about not knowing specific answers questions. The Peer promotes autonomy with the patient while also giving voice to her own lived experience.
Characters: Peer played by Candis Dover-Andrews, Mental Health Peer Bridger at Harborview Medical Center; Patient (“Myra”) played by Andrea Ishem, SUDPT, Counselor at Evergreen Treatment Services.