Jennifer Sharpe Potter, a dedicated advocate for addressing substance use disorders globally, has set her sights on establishing UT Health San Antonio’s Be Well Institute on Substance Use and Related Disorders as the premier institute in the field. With a vision of creating top-quality treatments and serving as a model for destigmatizing substance use, Potter believes that every life is valuable and deserving of saving.
The institute’s innovative approach to treatment is already transforming the landscape of substance use disorder care in Texas through outpatient and virtual services. This accessible and private approach reduces the stigma associated with seeking help, encouraging more individuals to enter treatment without barriers.
Potter is committed to pushing the boundaries of our understanding of substance use disorders and optimizing treatment strategies. One example of this commitment is the development and testing of an app designed to enhance outcomes for individuals undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder. By combining scientific research with practical, local solutions, the institute aspires to address the challenges faced by individuals struggling with substance use and remove obstacles preventing them from seeking help. Potter emphasizes the importance of preventing needless deaths from treatable conditions, emphasizing that substance use disorders are preventable with proper intervention.
The collaboration between TPR and The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in the Science & Medicine program highlights the groundbreaking research and advancements in healthcare taking place in San Antonio. This initiative showcases how scientific discoveries in the region are shaping medical practices and improving patient care on a global scale.
