New UVA program uses app to fight opioid and stimulant crisis

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- The opioid crisis remains a major health issue across the country, but a new program from UVA Health is harnessing the power of technology to help people in recovery right in the commonwealth.

UVA Health is partnering with DynamiCare Health on a 12-month virtual treatment program that uses a smartphone app and financial rewards to help participants get clean and stay on track.

Dr. Fummi Akinlade, a Psychiatry Resident at UVA Health, said the nature of the hospital's new opioid addiction program is a game-changer.

"Virtual delivery of this program actually helps us to get rid of, or lower, at least a lot of the usual barriers," Dr. Akinlade said.

These include common obstacles like transportation issues, unstable housing and the stigma associated with addiction treatment.

"Patients can engage on their own schedule in a way that's private, that's dignified and consistent. Right? And we can still track progress," she said.

The program is currently funded through the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority and has 100 available spots. To be eligible, participants must be at least 18 years old, a Virginia resident and have a smartphone that meets system requirements. They must also have used opioids or stimulants in the past three months.

"I really just want to see people who have been, I guess, who the system has neglected as far as care, just get some help and really feel like their problems, their issues also matter," Dr. Akinlade said.

The need for a new approach has never been more urgent. While treatment for opioid use disorder is becoming more effective, the crisis has grown more complex.

According to Dr. Nassima Ait-Daoud, Section Chief of Addiction Treatment at UVA, the rise of other substances has made the problem more lethal.

"People are now increasingly using methamphetamine and cocaine, and this combination has really made overdose more lethal," Dr. Ait-Daoud said. "A major challenge in treating these addictions is the lack of approved medication. We don't have any FDA-approved medication for those," she added.

This is where the program's main tool comes in -- Contingency Management. It's a proven behavioral therapy that rewards people who stay focused on their recovery goals.

As Dr. Akinlade described, the incentives can include "gift cards, money, things like that. When patients meet specific goals, and in this case with our project, patients earn financial rewards for staying on the care track."

Through the app, participants get reminders, meet with a peer coach and can access therapy tools.

If you or a loved one meets the requirements, you can get more information by calling the Care Coordinator at 434-243-0541.