Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2-11-2026

Comments

Presented at the 2026 Scholarly Inquiry (SI) Research Project Symposium.

Abstract

Introduction: The opioid crisis remains a leading cause of accidental death among U.S. adults under 45. Yet, medical education often inadequately prepares trainees to recognize overdoses, administer naloxone, or provide stigma-free care for people who use drugs (PWUD). These gaps contribute to reduced treatment engagement and underutilization of lifesaving interventions. This project examined whether an education-focused opioid overdose response intervention for first-year JeffMD students (Class of 2029) reduces stigma and improves clinical preparedness for drug-related emergencies.

Methods: We administered a baseline survey prior to the White Coat Ceremony and a follow-up survey after a naloxone training. Surveys incorporated validated instruments, including the Opioid Overdose Knowledge (OOKS) Scale and Opioid Overdose Attitudes Scale (OOAS).Paired statistical analyses evaluated pre–post changes, with exploratory subgroup analyses by prior overdose exposure, familiarity with the opioid epidemic, and prior training.

Results: Post-intervention, students demonstrated significant improvements in OOKS and OOAS (Cohen’s d=0.88, p=0.00016; d=0.78, p=0.0016), with largest gains in naloxone use knowledge (d=1.01, p=0.00013). OOAS showed an increase in competence in overdose response, but no significant change in concerns with responding and readiness to intervene(d=0.54, p=0.083; d=-0.45, p=0.0713). Students with lower baseline familiarity showed the greatest gains, while those with prior experience demonstrated smaller, ceiling-limited changes.

Discussion/ Conclusions: While the existing JeffMD naloxone training effectively improves knowledge and perceived competence, these findings suggest it may be insufficient to meaningfully reduce stigma or increase readiness to intervene in overdose situations. These findings support the need for a targeted naloxone kit that advances sustainable, equity-oriented substance use care among future healthcare providers.

Language

English

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