Various experts have suggested that states should spend opioid settlement dollars on data-focused technology. So far, states have been quiet on possible tech investments, citing other steps that must be taken first.
This spring, East Tennessee State University launched its inaugural ETSU Mentored Substance Use Research training program, designed to train substance use researchers across multiple disciplines in order to improve health outcomes in Central Appalachia.
Ten ETSU graduate students from multiple colleges and disciplines were selected for the inaugural cohort and are paired with a faculty mentor to train them in substance use research. Ten faculty members are participating as mentors in the program, which is led by Dr. Manik Ahuja, assistant professor in the Department of Health Services Management and Policy in the ETSU College of Public Health.
Ahuja, a trained substance use researcher, spearheaded the EMSUR program at ETSU after he was selected as one of five faculty members from across the country to attend New York Universityâs Substance Abuse Research Education and Training Visiting Development Mentor Program.